Apricena, Italian comune
Apricena is a small town in the Province of Foggia in the Apulia region of southern Italy. Its buildings are mostly one or two stories high, constructed from local stone and brick, arranged along quiet streets with small squares and neighborhood shops.
Apricena's history stretches back many centuries, rooted in agriculture and stone quarrying. The most notable event involves Pope Celestine V, who took refuge in a local monastery in 1296 after stepping down from his papacy, only to be captured shortly after.
The Madonna dell'Incoronata is the patron saint of Apricena, and her worship shapes local life in the town. During festivities in April and May, a statue of the Virgin is carried through the streets while residents sing and pray together, a custom that has anchored the community's identity for generations.
Apricena is located about 42 kilometers from Foggia, making it easy to visit from larger cities in the region. The town's main roads are straightforward to navigate, and basic services like shops and cafes are available throughout for travelers seeking rest and local food.
The stone quarried in Apricena, known as Apricena Stone, is shipped worldwide and has been used in significant construction projects, including the sanctuary of San Pio da Pietrelcina in San Giovanni Rotondo. Stone extraction has shaped the town's economy and identity for centuries.
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