Varano Lake is the largest widest lake of southern Italy. This coastal lake is actually a real lagoon which communicates with the sea through the Varano mouth and the Capoiale outfall, even if it’s continuously fed by fresh water. This lake is an amazing example of how wonderful nature can be. This cobalt blue precious stone is actually set in a green frame made of junipers, Aleppo pines and eucalyptus. Varano Lake is well stocked with fish, in particular Eels. In the past this site was populated by birds swamp too, which attracted many hunters. Today, on the other hand, is it possible to admire gulls, turtledoves, cuckoo and cormorants. Along the east coast you can find the particular Church of the Blessed Jesus Crucified, where you can look up to a stupendous ancient wooden crucifix. Legend has it that the crucifix performed a miracle by making rain during a dry spell.
That’s the reason why every year takes place a picturesque procession which ends with amazing fire games. There’s another religious event too which takes place on the Varano Lake and it’s related to another crucifix. The last Sunday of every August that crucifix is carried on a boat all the way to Varano mouth harbor. Once there the clergyman blesses the sea, the lake and all the believers. This splendid place worth visiting not only because of the show offered by uncontaminated nature, but for the foreshortening that are able to touch your soul. On the 13th of August takes place the Varanea festival, which celebrates the delicious local food. Fishermen cook fish products that must be served not only with local wine and strong drinks but also with delicious cakes. Everything come along with folkloristic music bands. When the festival comes to an end the whole Lake is illuminated with lots of fire plays and luminous buoys.
[...] deep blue of the sea. From Ischitella you can see the Tremiti Islands and the Varano Lake too. Foce Varano is an hamlet near Ischitella and it rises on one of the mouths of the homonymous lake. It is also a [...]