Paglicci Cave towards UNESCO: event in Rignano Garganico on 23 May 2026

On Saturday 23 May 2026, Rignano Garganico will hold a public day to promote the candidacy of Paglicci Cave for UNESCO World Heritage status. The programme links scientific research, site enhancement and local tourism development strategies.

Why Paglicci Cave matters

Paglicci Cave is one of the most important Paleolithic sites in Italy and the Mediterranean: excavations have produced tens of thousands of finds spanning roughly 500,000 to 11,000 years ago, with evidence of Homo erectus, Neanderthals and modern humans. The site contains some of Italy's oldest paintings and graffiti and significant human remains, all central to its UNESCO candidacy.

Event programme

• Morning (08:30): guided hiking walk starting from the courtyard of the former municipal gym on Via Genova. The route includes an external inspection of Paglicci Cave, the Valle di Ividoro and the Spagnoli Cave.
• Afternoon (from 17:00): national conference in the auditorium of the former municipal gym with institutional and scientific presentations on the UNESCO nomination, reopening of the museum hub and the site's economic prospects.
• Evening (20:00): concert on Via Genova featuring Red Diamonds and the "Notti Magiche Tribute Band" project, with singer-songwriter Rossana Facciorusso as guest.
• Awards: presentation of the "Ambassadors of Prehistory" prize to seven local organisations that promote the area's excellence internationally.

Practical information

Date: 23 May 2026
Location: Via Genova, 71010 Rignano Garganico (FG), Italy
Hike registration: mandatory; voluntary contribution of €10; trekking gear required.

For full details and registration, visit the official project website: www.grottapaglicci.it. The event offers a concrete opportunity to discover a unique prehistoric heritage and support cultural and tourism initiatives in the Gargano area.