The Gargano Promontory is in
the Foggia province of Apulia. Also referred to as the spur of Italy’s boot, it
is along the Adriatic Sea and includes Monte
Calvo - 1,065 m 3,494 feet - and the Gargano National Park. This
peninsula is partly covered with a beech and oak forest that once blanketed
much of Central Europe. The poet Horace mentions the oaks as Garganus in Ode II,ix.
The Gargano National Park is one of the few national protected
areas efficiently contributing to the "a Forest for Kyoto", which has
involved several schools in the realization of projects for social and
responsible tourism. It is also unique for renowned for fire reductions and its
environmental awareness program.
Monte Sant’Angelo’s
medieval quarter is characterized by terraced houses,
traces of its Longobard period and the Sanctuary with the cult of the Archangel
Michael who, according to tradition, appeared in a grotto. Also, the Norman
Castle, the historic center and St’ Michael’s Basilica.
Art
Cities and Medieval Castles in Puglia
The Coastline features
several beaches, resorts and historic small town, including:
Vieste receives
blue flag awards for the quality of its waters. During mediaeval times, its
port was frequently attacked by pirates, Saracens and
other enemies of the Kingdom of Naples. In 1554 around 5,000 inhabitants
were executed by the Turks; they were considered too elderly or infirm for
transport into slavery, an event is commemorated every year. The eastern coast around Vieste features numerous coastal watch towers.
Mattinata is the
only town in Apulia facing
south on the Adriatic Coast. The main urban area is located on two hills
enclosed by mountains on the northern, western and southern sides; eastward, there
is a valley facing the Adriatic Sea. The northern coast is known for its chalky
white cliffs, its large number of suggestive sea grottos and, above all, for
its two Faraglioni stacks, located in the Zagare Bay area. The
area is also a popular destination for botanical experts, due to the existence
of around 60 different species of orchids.
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