Vico del Gargano, the village caught between the sea and the Umbra Forest

Immersed in the heart of the Gargano, Vico del Gargano is an ancient village whose name derives from the Latin vicus, meaning village. Its history dates back to 970, when, after the expulsion of the Saracens, the leader of the Slavs in the service of the Byzantines gathered the population into a new settlement. In the following centuries, Vico experienced alternating dominations and transformations: the Normans built the first castle, later expanded by Frederick II of Swabia, while in 1292 it was equipped with a powerful defensive wall with towers. The village also stood out for its olive oil production and religious life, with confraternities and sanctuaries. Under the Aragonese and the Spinelli family, it continued to grow, enriched with new districts and traditions.

What to see in Vico del Gargano 

Among the treasures of Vico del Gargano are its churches: the Mother Church, with its stone portal and eleven altars, overlooking the Civita and Casale districts; the Church of San Giuseppe in the Old Town, guardian of the Dead Christ carried in procession on Good Friday; the 13th-century Church of San Marco; the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli with the Capuchin Convent and valuable works of art; and the Church of San Pietro on Mount Tabor, with its ancient history. Civil architecture preserves the 14th-century walls of Teodisco da Cuneo, the Norman-Aragonese castle, and the picturesque Palazzo della Bella, inspired by Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio. Walking through the town, one should admire the stone portals and wooden doors, symbols of the dignity of dwelling.

Events in the village 

In Vico del Gargano, religious and cultural traditions mark the year with moments of great charm. On February 14, the feast of Saint Valentine, patron of the village, a procession winds through streets decorated with oranges and lemons, symbols of love and fertility. Among the most heartfelt rites is the Messa Pazza of Good Friday: from the morning, confraternities visit the churches chanting the Miserere, culminating in the ascent to Calvary with five crosses. Summer comes alive with the Estate Vichese festival, featuring theatrical performances in the village and at the amphitheater.

What to see around the village

 The surroundings of Vico del Gargano offer a territory rich in nature and spirituality. Just a few kilometers away, the Umbra Forest, the green heart of the Gargano National Park, offers trails among centuries-old beech trees, small lakes, and equipped areas ideal for excursions. On the coast, the beaches of San Menaio and Calenella offer crystal-clear waters and fragrant pine forests, perfect for a seaside break. Particularly evocative is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria di Devia, a Romanesque masterpiece immersed in Mediterranean scrub. Moving toward the coast, one can admire the breathtaking views of Peschici and Rodi Garganico, seafaring villages rich in history, traditions, and excellent cuisine based on fresh fish and typical Gargano products.

Cover photo credits: Luca Lorenzelli