Vieste, Coastal commune in Gargano Peninsula, Italy.
Vieste is a commune on the Adriatic coast in Gargano, Province of Foggia, Italy. The old town sits on a promontory between two sandy beaches, surrounded by white limestone cliffs that extend down to the sea.
The settlement began in ancient times as a Roman outpost and later became a Byzantine stronghold during the Middle Ages. In the 16th century an attack by Ottoman corsairs devastated much of the population and shaped the collective memory of the region.
The name likely derives from the Latin Apeneste, pointing to pre-Christian origins. Today visitors explore the old town, where fishermen still repair their nets in the morning and stop at small taverns around midday.
The beaches are within walking distance from the center, with stairs and steep alleys leading down to the shore. Those wishing to explore the area will find viewpoints and coves along the coastal road, easier to reach by vehicle.
A large white limestone boulder rises about 26 meters (85 feet) from the sand on the southern beach and is visible from afar. Locals say the rock has served for centuries as a landmark for sailors navigating along this coast.
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