Carpino: ancient olive groves, living traditions, and timeless music in the heart of Gargano - Hotel Paglianza
Tucked into the green hills of Gargano, Carpino is a small Apulian village where centuries-old olive trees, medieval architecture, and vibrant folk music create an experience that feels both authentic and unforgettable.
Known as the “town of extra-virgin olive oil” and the cradle of the famous Tarantella di Carpino, this village invites visitors to slow down, wander through stone alleys, and listen to stories carried on the wind.
Medieval roots and a historic center
Carpino’s origins date back to the Middle Ages. The earliest records appear in the 11th century, when a Norman castle rose on the hilltop, portions of which are still visible today, integrated into the village houses.
A walk through the old town reveals narrow cobblestone lanes, arches of pale limestone, and balconies draped with flowers, opening suddenly to sweeping views of Lake Varano and the Adriatic Sea.
Don’t miss the Church of San Cirillo, with Romanesque lines and Byzantine-era frescoes, and the Church of San Nicola di Mira, home to striking sacred art and an imposing bell tower. Each corner reflects the layered history of Carpino—Byzantine, Norman, and later the Kingdom of Naples—telling a story of centuries in stone.
Ancient olive trees and the “Green Gold”
Carpino is celebrated for its extra-virgin olive oil, pressed from groves of millennia-old olive trees sculpted by time and sea winds. Some trunks are so massive and twisted that they look like living sculptures.
Local producers welcome visitors to historic mills where you can watch the traditional cold-press process and taste oil prized across Italy for its rich, fruity flavor. An evening walk among these monumental trees, especially at sunset, becomes a sensory journey of scent, texture, and history.
The sound of tradition: Tarantella of Carpino
Music is the heartbeat of the village. Carpino is home to the Tarantella from Gargano, a fast-paced folk dance blending love songs, rhythmic guitars, and tambourines. Passed down orally through generations, this tradition remains vibrant today.
Even outside the renowned Carpino Folk Festival, local musicians keep the rhythms alive. On summer evenings, you might hear the strum of the chitarra battente echoing through a courtyard, inviting everyone to join the dance.
Landscapes between forest and sea
Carpino’s setting makes it ideal for nature lovers. To the south rises the Foresta Umbra, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with hiking trails through towering beech forests where deer and wild boar roam.
Looking north, the view opens onto Lake Varano, Italy’s largest coastal lagoon, a paradise for birdwatchers seeking herons, egrets, and even flamingos in season.
Spring and autumn bring vivid colors and soft light, perfect for photographers and cyclists following ancient shepherds’ trails to neighboring villages like Cagnano Varano and Ischitella.
Authentic Flavors of the Gargano
Carpino’s cuisine mirrors its agricultural roots. Expect orecchiette with turnip greens, hearty local legumes, goat’s milk cheeses, wood-fired bread, and desserts made with almonds and citrus.
Family-run farmhouses offer tastings and cooking workshops, where you can learn how olive oil and freshly baked bread define the region’s culinary identity.
A one-day itinerary
For travelers based on the Gargano coast, Carpino makes a rewarding day trip.
Start with a stroll through the historic center and a visit to the two main churches.
Stop at a traditional olive mill for a guided tasting, then spend the afternoon hiking in the Foresta Umbra or exploring the shores of Lake Varano.
Finish with an aperitivo of local cheeses and seasonal vegetables while the sun sets over the hills.
Discovering the authentic Gargano
Carpino embodies the essence of Gargano: ancient traditions, unspoiled nature, and music that speaks of love and everyday life. For anyone seeking a quieter, more genuine side of Puglia, this village offers a perfect balance of culture and landscape.
After a day among thousand-year-old olive trees, medieval alleys, and the vibrant rhythms of the tarantella, you’ll appreciate a comfortable retreat by the sea. Hotel Paglianza, overlooking the beautiful Gargano coastline, is an ideal base for exploring Carpino and the many other treasures of the promontory, combining modern comfort with warm, understated hospitality.
