The Civic Tower, dating back to 1552 and located in the setting of Piazza Garibaldi, constitutes an example of a Baroque assemblage as it features several elements in axis such as the infamous column, a statue of San Gennaro, the city coat of arms and a clock. The structure has a semi-hexagonal plan, the façade is in tuffaceous masonry and a single flight staircase leads to the upper floors.

In the lower part of the tower is the infamous column or pillory column, where those who were guilty of crimes were exposed to the public: you can still see the grooves carved out of the heads and shoulders of those who were bound there throughout history.

In the lower part of the tower is the infamous pillar or pillory, where those who were guilty of crimes were exposed to the public: you can still see the grooves carved into the heads and shoulders of those who were bound there throughout history.

At the apex of the tower is the bell guarded in a bell gable and used in the past to gather the citizens or to warn of danger from the sea; finally, two sculptures of griffins stand on the bell tower, symbolising guardianship and vigilance.

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CREDITS: Comune di Monopoli.