Headquarters of the Gargano National Park, the life of Monte Sant’Angelo revolves around the Sanctuary of St. Michael Archangel, a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site whose construction, between the 5th and 6th centuries, was inspired, according to legend, by visions of the archangel in a cave. The Lombards, who dominated Southern Italy at the time, made it their national sanctuary and its fame quickly spread throughout Christendom, becoming an important destination for pilgrims from all over Europe and the Knight Crusaders heading to Jerusalem.
The historical centre is the highest in the Gargano area (843m) and has a strategic position on the spur south of the promontory, looking over Tavoliere to the west and the Gulf of Manfredonia to the south.
The ancient Junno neighbourhood is a maze of alleyways and low houses, where bakers prepare traditional ostie stuffed with honey and almonds. History is palpable in the walls of the Norman Castle, home to Emperor Frederick II, the Rotari Tomb and the Complex of St. Francis which now houses the Gargano Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions.
On a spur overlooking the Gulf, the ancient Abbey of Santa Maria di Pulsano stands amidst dozens of hermitages carved out of the rocks, 8km from the town centre.
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