Vieste and the legend of Pizzomunno

Hanging from the pure-white limestone cliffs, the mediaeval town of Vieste is a beautiful mix of narrow alleys, cobblestone pathways, souvenir shops, and sandy beaches that make it one of the most tranquil summer getaways in Puglia. In fact, the seaside town has lured not only tourists but also a very famous legend – the legend of Pizzomunno – to its scenic shores. It is believed that this ancient legend has given birth to an unusual landform, a giant monolith called Pizzomunno, on the edges of the dazzling Adriatic Sea.

So, let’s take you through the romantic legend of Pizzomunno and see why Vieste is totally worth a visit on your trip to Puglia this summer!

Standing 87 feet tall under the dramatic skies of Vieste, Pizzomunno is tucked away at the far north end of the 3km-long, golden-sand beach of Castello. Though the natural structure is a memorable sight to see in itself, the legend has given it a charming history that has remained with it for hundreds of years

The singular Pizzomunno on the edges of Castello Beach

According to the legend, the young fisherman, Pizzomunno, and his lover, the beautiful Cristalda, were attracted to the stunning “end-of-the-world” location of Vieste by the song of a hundred mermaids. As the young couple were stealing some moments together, the mermaids – who had tried hard to seduce the handsome fisherman but failed – became jealous of the great love and loyalty between Pizzomunno and Cristalda.

Next thing you know, the mermaids transformed Pizzomunno into a large white stack of stones! Then to make sure that the young lovers were kept apart, the mermaids tied Cristalda’s feet and sent her into the depths of the sea. The legend further continues that Pizzomunno is turned back into his human form every hundred years and disappears from the shore for a single day to meet his beloved Cristalda!

But, legend or no legend, Vieste is a really picturesque and romantic holiday getaway on the Gargano Peninsula. In fact, for digital nomads too, Vieste is a great starting point for a laid-back nomadic life in Italy!

The stunning promontory of Vieste

What can you do in Vieste?

With the calm, blue flag waters of the Adriatic lapping the shores, Vieste’s beaches and sea are perfect for enjoying water sports and swimming. In the town itself, an essential experience is wandering around the charming alleyways of Vieste’s old town centre.

You can carry on your little tour from the old town centre of Vieste to its breathtaking promontory with white-washed houses and some extraordinarily romantic sunsets. From the promontory, you can head to the nearby Norman Castle and catch a panorama of the striking white of Pizzamunno and the gorgeous deep blue of the Adriatic Sea.

Another must-do when in Vieste is boat tours! Transporting you to impressive hidden caves, coves and natural formations, the boat tours from Vieste are an excellent way to soak up the picture-perfect beauty of the Gargano Peninsula.

Tip: To enrich your travels with something truly Puglian, a visit to the capital of Trulli, Alberobello is a must.

Vieste’s excellent location in the magnificent Gargano Park also makes it possible to enjoy extraordinary excursions in the magical mediaeval woodland of Foresta Umbra in just 30 minutes!

The enchanting beauty of Umbra Forest

Moreover, Vico del Gargano (the village of love) and the sandier beaches of Peschici are also within a 40-minute drive from Vieste. But if you are with your family for a long summer break, then an extraordinary date with history in the natural cave churches of Gravina di Puglia is unmissable. Also unmissable is a visit to the other pearl of the Adriatic, Polignano a Mare, which has more than 70 sea caves and year-round crystal-clear waters to enjoy!

Inspired to take a trip down to the charming seaside town of Vieste? Book a stay in any of our carefree holiday homes in Puglia.