Monte Sant’Angelo is a small town in the province of Foggia and it is part of the Gargano National Park. It is located in the hills on the Gargano promontory, the spur of Italy, from where it overlooks the splendid gulf of Manfredonia. Monte Sant’Angelo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June 2011.
Planning a trip to Puglia? Explore these helpful services!
Discover your ideal hotel
In search of the ideal lodging? Explore a diverse range of choices on Booking.com. Whether you prefer luxurious hotels or budget-friendly accommodations, you’ll find the perfect match.
Organize your activities
Eager to discover the allure of Puglia? Reserve thrilling tours and activities via Viator. Immerse yourself in the region’s charm with knowledgeable local guides leading you to the top well-known highlights.
Book your guide
Searching for the finest tour experience in Puglia? Book exceptional tour guides through GetYourGuide. Immerse yourself in the allure of the region as expert local guides take you to the best hidden treasures.
At the time of the apparition, Puglia was ruled by the Lombards which made Monte Sant’Angelo and the cave their national shrine. The town and the holy cave, which was sacked by the Saracens in 871, became very soon a religious meta for pilgrims coming from all over, as Puglia was of passage for pilgrims and crusaders on their way to the holy land. Kings, emperors, popes and Saint Francis of Assisi made their pilgrimage here asking for St. Michael’s protection.
The imposing castle dating from the 9th century, is a testimony of an incredible past era and dominates the entire town from its highest point. It was destroyed and rebuilt numerous times under the Norman, Swabian and Aragonese domains. The Torre dei Giganti (Giants’ Tower) is also part of the castle, so called as it is made of huge boulders. The Tomb of Rotari is an imposing domed tower.
The Tomba is traditionally believed to be the tomb of Rothari, a 7th-century Lombard chieftain who converted to Christianity, but it is probably a 12th-century Romanesque baptistery dedicated to Saint John. Near the Tomb are the ruins of the Saint Peter Church. Nearby is the Santa Maria Maggiore Church which preserves beautiful internal frescoes including one of the Archangel.
