Paglicci Cave
Cave Prehistoric cave site with Paleolithic finds
Paleolithic cave in Apulia known to archaeologists for prehistoric human remains and artifacts; visited on specialised tours that explore the Gargano area’s prehistoric sites.
Paglicci Cave is a prehistoric cave site in Apulia, southern Italy, noted for its Paleolithic archaeological deposits. It is recognised for evidence of Upper Paleolithic human activity and finds.
The site itself is primarily of archaeological interest rather than a developed show cave; the cave yielded stratified deposits with stone tools, faunal remains and traces of prehistoric human use. Findings from the site are important for research into Palaeolithic occupation of southern Italy and are usually displayed or studied in regional museums.
Excavations at the cave in the 20th century revealed long sequences of prehistoric occupation including Upper Paleolithic layers. The site has contributed to understanding human activity, burial practices and environmental conditions in the region during the Paleolithic.
Located in the Apulia region of southern Italy, inland from the Adriatic coast; the cave lies within the karst landscapes of the region.
- Archaeological significance: The cave is an important archaeological and Paleolithic site known for stratified human occupation layers, stone tools and prehistoric remains; access to the interior is typically restricted to protect the deposits.
How to Get to Paglicci Cave #
Paglicci Cave is near Altamura and Palese in Apulia. Access typically involves regional roads from Bari or Foggia; local directions depend on the specific archaeological site gate and conservation measures. Consult provincial archaeological offices or local tourist information for guided access and directions.
Tips for Visiting Paglicci Cave #
- Guided tours are advisable - permits and conservation rules often limit unsupervised access to chambers with archaeological remains.
- Bring a good headlamp or expect dim light; the cave's interior can be uneven and slippery.
- Check local museum displays in nearby towns for context; many finds were moved to provincial collections.
Best Time to Visit Paglicci Cave #
Spring through autumn for best access and associated museum openings.
Weather & Climate near Paglicci Cave #
Paglicci Cave's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 4°C to 31°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
January
January is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (34 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (31 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 12°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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July
July is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 21 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 31°C and lows of 19°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. The wettest month with 49 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
