San Nicola is a tiny rocky island (0.16...
San Nicola is a tiny rocky island (0.16 sq miles) in the Tremiti archipelago dominated by a fusion between a monastery and a fortress.
The ferry from San Domino drops passengers in the small sandy harbour. A steep stone passageway zig zags up past a range of defensive structures to the walled medieval village and administrative center for the islands. The fortified monastery sits on the highest point of the island with church of Santa Maria a Mare at it's heart. The intriguing mix of objects inside the church tell a story of a long and complex occupancy. A black Madonna, a 13th century Byzantine crucifix and an 11th century mosaic floor decorated with mythical beasts. The remainder of the monastery is in poor condition but has many nooks and crannies to explore.
