Paglicci Cave heads to UNESCO: public day in Rignano Garganico

On Saturday 23 May 2026, Rignano Garganico will hold a public day to support the nomination of Paglicci Cave to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The event connects archaeological research, territorial enhancement strategies and proposals for sustainable local tourism.

Why attend

Paglicci Cave is one of the Mediterranean's most significant Paleolithic sites: excavations have yielded thousands of artefacts and human remains documenting human presence from the Pleistocene until about 11,000 years ago. These findings form the scientific basis for the UNESCO nomination and constitute an important cultural legacy for the area.

Day 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 Ividoro Valley and the Grotta degli Spagnoli.
• Afternoon (from 17:00): national conference at the auditorium of the former municipal gym with institutional speeches and scientific contributions on the UNESCO candidacy, the reopening of the museum hub and local economic impacts.
• Evening (20:00): concert in Via Genova with Red Diamonds and the Notti Magiche Tribute Band project, featuring singer-songwriter Rossana Facciorusso; awards for the Ambassadors of Prehistory will follow.

Practical information

• Date: 23 May 2026
• Venue: Via Genova, 71010 Rignano Garganico (FG), Italy
• Hike registration: required; voluntary contribution €10
• Equipment: trekking clothing and suitable footwear
• Details and registration: visit the official website www.grottapaglicci.it

This public day is a concrete chance to learn about a major prehistoric site and to support projects for its protection, research and sustainable enjoyment in the Gargano area.