Premio Jalarde
The cultural award of Rignano Garganico in the heart of the Gargano
About Premio Jalarde
An award in the heart of the Gargano
The Premio Jalarde is the signature cultural event of the summer in Rignano Garganico, a small village perched on the Gargano plateau in the province of Foggia, in the heart of Puglia. Every year in mid-August, the community gathers to pay tribute to those who carry the town's name with pride: residents and "Friends of Rignano" who have distinguished themselves professionally, culturally, or socially, often far from the Gargano but always connected to their roots.
The story behind the name
The award is named after Gabriele Galardi, known as Jalarde, a 19th-century brigand from the Capitanata region. His figure symbolizes the duality of Southern Italian history: considered an outlaw by the Savoyard state, he is remembered in popular memory as a local hero. Through this character, the award fosters an annual reflection on the shadows and lights of the Unification of Italy, brigandage, and the history of the South, accompanied by 19th-century music.
The legacy of Tonino Del Vecchio
The event was created by the late Tonino Del Vecchio, a local journalist, historian, poet, and writer who served as the guardian of Rignano Garganico's memory. Today, the award is organized by the «Giulio Ricci» Cultural Circle, in collaboration with local public and private entities, and includes the Journalism Award named after Del Vecchio himself alongside the Jalarde recognition.
Culture, community, and territory
Beyond the awards ceremony, the evening is a moment of celebration and pride for the entire Gargano community. The event also highlights the Grotta Paglicci, a famous prehistoric site on the outskirts of the town, and supports local youth with scholarships for students at the University of Foggia. It is an appointment that blends history, identity, and a forward-looking perspective within the evocative setting of Rignano Garganico's historic center.
Premio Jalarde — edition 2026
The sixth edition of the Premio Jalarde, scheduled for August 17, 2026, in Rignano Garganico, confirms the formula that intertwines historical memory with recognition of local excellence. The evening addresses the theme of brigandage and the Unification of Italy with an open discussion on the shadows and lights of the Risorgimento, accompanied by 19th-century music, and introduces significant institutional developments linked to the legacy of Tonino Del Vecchio.
Programme Premio Jalarde 2026
August 17, 2026 — The ceremony
The sixth edition of the Premio Jalarde takes place on August 17, 2026, starting at 6:00 PM in the historic center of Rignano Garganico. The evening alternates between the presentation of awards and moments of historical reflection on the brigand Gabriele Galardi and the Unification of Italy, accompanied by 19th-century music.
2026 Honorees
- Annamaria Fallucchi — Senator, for her commitment to small municipalities and the revival of Southern villages
- Antonio De Angelis — Entrepreneur, awarded for his social commitment
- Aurora Giuliani — Social worker, head of Social Services for the Municipality of Rignano Garganico
- Francesco Nardella — Young manager, an example of "returning to one's roots" and excellence in technological innovation
- Carlo Regina — Recognition for artisanal excellence
- Arcy Radatti — Artist
- Damiano Pizzichetti — Chef
New features of this edition
- Presentation of the Tonino Del Vecchio Foundation, named after the award's creator
- Awarding of four scholarships to students enrolled at the University of Foggia
- Special tribute to the Grotta Paglicci and six key figures who contributed to its promotion
- An open discussion on the shadows and lights of the Unification of Italy
The complete list of honorees and the evening's schedule will be finalized on official channels in the weeks leading up to the event.
Highlights Premio Jalarde 2026
Prices Premio Jalarde 2026
Practical information — Premio Jalarde
When and where
The Premio Jalarde ceremony takes place in the historic center of Rignano Garganico (FG), Puglia, on August 17, 2026, starting at 6:00 PM.
How to get there
Rignano Garganico is located on the Gargano plateau in the province of Foggia. It can be reached by car via the SS89 and the Gargano provincial roads; the nearest motorway exit is Foggia (A14), about 40 km away. The reference railway station is San Marco in Lamis-Rignano.
Admission
Admission to the ceremony is free. The event takes place outdoors; comfortable clothing is recommended for the summer evening.
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Where does it take place — Premio Jalarde
Borgo antico di Rignano Garganico