4 June 2023 - Vieste

This morning, there was a triathlon in the town. Lots of the roads were closed, but marshals allowed cars to cross over the closed roads, when it was clear. The top temperature was 24C today, but it felt hot to me, when we walked to the supermarket, so I’m sure it was hot going when the athletes were running, if not before. 


Our provisioning took us to the modern part of the town. A lot of the towns we have visited in southern Italy give us the impression that there isn’t much importance put on the exterior appearance of the apartment blocks, but I bet they are very stylish inside. Vieste is no different in this regard, but there are a few more attractive buildings in the suburb.

We then enjoyed a walk through the narrow streets of the old town, going up the steps towards the cathedral, where hearts and inscriptions tell about Pizzomunno’s love.




 Vieste's best-known landform is Pizzomunno, a sea stack 26.6 m (87 ft) high, situated on the Spiaggia del Castello ("Castle Beach"). The stone connects to a local legend about a fisherman called Pizzomunno whose true love was captured by sirens and imprisoned under the sea. The story tells how he swam out to rescue her, but became exhausted and gave up hope, turning to stone. Other myths about the rock are that it disappears on some nights, and that a wish made while circling it will come true.




From up at the castle there a splendid view of Pizzomunno and the 3km long castle beach, now laid out in typical style of straight rows of sun-beds, under umbrellas. 


Our dinner was interrupted by chanting, songs and ultimately fireworks, being let off by the Napoli Club of Vieste.  Napoli's football team have won Serie A in Italy for the first time in a while and there is obviously a lot of excitement for the tifosi.

Miles today            0

Miles in 2023     652

Tricia (& Steve)

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