Baia delle Zagare

Two pale limestone stacks rise from the Adriatic off Baia delle Zagare, on the coast north of Mattinata. One is pierced by a natural arch, and the rocks frame a cove of light-coloured sand and clear water.

Why it matters

The faraglioni are a prominent natural landmark of the Gargano coast. Their pale limestone forms part of the wider coastal landscape of cliffs, sea caves and coves protected within the Gargano National Park. The Comune of Mattinata has used their name for its environmental award, established in 2001.

What to notice

One sea stack has an opening shaped by erosion into a near-regular arch. The cove includes a long stretch of light sand, while the surrounding cliffs are marked by caves and rocky outcrops. The name Baia delle Zagare refers to the white blossoms of citrus trees; the adjacent beach toward Vieste is also known as Baia dei Mergoli.

Context and history

The faraglioni are limestone formations shaped by coastal erosion. Their appearance reflects the interaction of rock, waves and wind along this section of the Gargano. The bay is also a point of reference in local descriptions of the coastline.