Italian singer-songwriter Domenico Modugno was born in Puglia, although he claimed to be Sicilian

Domenico Modugno, the Italian singer known for his iconic song Volare, was born in Polignano a Mare, a coastal town in the Puglia region, according to official records. Despite this, he often claimed to be from Sicily, a detail that has sparked curiosity among locals and fans alike. The birthplace of the artist, Polignano a Mare, is currently celebrating its patron saint, San Vito Mártir, with vibrant festivities that draw both residents and visitors. The celebrations in Polignano a Mare are marked by traditional processions, fireworks displays, and the bustling streets filled with local artisans and vendors. During these days, the town's historic center comes alive with music, food, and cultural activities. The annual festival includes the symbolic journey of relics of Saint Vito by boat, followed by a procession through the main street, which is named after the saint. Fireworks light up the night sky, creating images of flowers, stars, and hearts, while colorful arches illuminate the narrow alleys of the ancient part of the town. Locals and tourists gather along the main thoroughfare, San Vito, and cross the Ponte Borbonico bridge to reach the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi. Others pass through the Arco Marchesale, entering the historic district, a labyrinth of stone-paved passages and hidden corners that invite exploration. The natural beauty of the area, including towering cliffs and clear waters, adds to the charm of the town. Restaurants in Polignano a Mare serve traditional dishes such as panino al polpo and orecchiette al pomodoro, alongside more familiar options like risotto and pizza. The popular ice cream shop Il Super Mago, owned by the Campanella family, is a notable stop during the festivities, though it experiences longer lines than usual. The town’s markets offer a variety of goods, from handmade crafts to imported items, reflecting the blend of local tradition and global influences. As the celebrations continue, anticipation builds for the upcoming Red Bull Cliff Diving competition, which will take place at the cliffs overlooking the sea. Participants will face the challenge of jumping from heights of up to 27 meters into the water, showcasing their courage and skill. Amidst the lively atmosphere, the melody of Volare echoes through the streets, restaurants, and hotels. The song, which became a worldwide hit, is associated with the statue of Domenico Modugno, located near the Adriatic Sea. His iconic pose, arms stretched wide as if embracing life, mirrors the image seen in vintage photographs from the 1950s, when he rose to fame. Born in Polignano a Mare on January 9, 1928, Modugno inherited a love for music from his parents. At age seven, his family moved to Pietro Vernotico in Brindisi due to his father’s work, but they returned each summer to the coastal town. Local accounts describe him as a mischievous child who often played pranks, climbing stairs and throwing stones at windows. Despite this, his parents were lenient, referring to him as someone who “wasn’t spanked,” a phrase used to describe children who lacked strict discipline. Modugno spent much of his childhood exploring the town, spending time at his uncle’s tobacco shop, in the area of Largo Gelso, and at the ice cream cart run by the Campanella family. Today, the walls of Il Super Mago feature photos of the singer, alongside other notable figures, capturing moments of his visits to the town. Though his early years were rooted in rural life, Modugno eventually left for a broader world, pursuing his passion for music beyond the confines of his hometown.