Grotta Paglicci toward UNESCO: public day in Rignano Garganico

On 23 May 2026, Rignano Garganico will hold a public day to promote the nomination of Grotta Paglicci for the UNESCO World Heritage List. The program connects archaeological research, local heritage enhancement and strategies for sustainable tourism development.

Why attend

Grotta Paglicci is one of the most important Paleolithic sites in the Mediterranean: excavations have uncovered thousands of artifacts and human remains documenting human presence from the Pleistocene up to around 11,000 years ago. These findings underpin the UNESCO nomination and highlight the site's scientific and cultural value.

Event schedule

• 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 the cave, a visit to the Valle di Ividoro and the Grotta degli Spagnoli.
• Afternoon (from 17:00): national symposium in the auditorium of the former municipal gym with institutional and scientific presentations on the UNESCO candidacy, reopening of the museum hub and local economic prospects.
• Evening (20:00): concert on Via Genova featuring Red Diamonds and the "Notti Magiche Tribute Band" project, with singer-songwriter Rossana Facciorusso. Awards ceremony for the "Ambassadors of Prehistory" recognition will follow.

Practical information

• Date: 23 May 2026
• Location: Via Genova, 71010 Rignano Garganico (FG), Italy
• Hike registration: mandatory; voluntary contribution €10.
• Required equipment: trekking clothing and suitable footwear.
• Details and registration: see the official project website www.grottapaglicci.it.

This public day offers a direct opportunity to learn about a unique prehistoric heritage and to support initiatives for research, protection and sustainable cultural tourism in the Gargano area.