Bari

Bari: Discover the magic of this fascinating city in southern Italy

Bari, overlooking the blue waters of the Adriatic, is a city that embodies an extraordinary mix of history, culture and tradition. Capital of Puglia, Bari is a destination that fascinates visitors with its vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere and its architectural treasures. If you are planning a visit to this fascinating city, here are the ten most important things to see: from the majestic Basilica of San Nicola, guardian of the relics of the patron saint, to the suggestive Old Town (Bari Vecchia) with its picturesque alleys, without forgetting the symbolic Swabian Castle and the romantic Lungomare di Bari. Discover the charm of the Petruzzelli Theatre, one of the most prestigious theaters in Italy, and the solemnity of the Cathedral of San Sabino. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Piazza Mercantile and the spirituality of the Church of Santa Teresa dei Maschi. Let yourself be surprised by the colors and scents of the Fish Market and conclude your tour with a visit to the evocative Fortino di Sant'Antonio. Get ready to live an unforgettable experience among the wonders of Bari.

Basilica of San Nicola

Description

The Basilica of San Nicola is one of the most important and visited places of worship in Bari, as well as a significant example of Romanesque architecture Apulian. The basilica was built between 1087 and 1197 to house the relics of Saint Nicholas, bishop of Myra, which were brought to Bari by a group of sailors from Bari. Saint Nicholas is a figure venerated not only by Catholics but also by Orthodox Christians, which makes the basilica a place of ecumenical pilgrimage.

Architecture

The structure of the basilica is imposing and austere , with a white stone façade divided into three parts by pilasters and crowned with blind arches. Inside, the plan is a Latin cross, with three naves separated by columns and pillars. The gilded and painted wooden ceiling adds a touch of magnificence to the entire building.

Relics of Saint Nicholas

The relics of Saint Nicholas are kept in the crypt of the basilica, a place of great devotion. The crypt is supported by 26 marble and granite columns, some of which come from Roman buildings. Every year, on December 6, the feast day of Saint Nicholas, the basilica becomes the center of solemn religious celebrations.

Art and Decorations

The basilica houses numerous artistic treasures, including the ciborium of the main altar, a 12th century marble work, and the episcopal throne, known as 'Elijah's Chair'. The walls are adorned with frescoes and mosaics that testify to the rich artistic history of the place.

Events and Celebrations

In addition to the feast of Saint Nicholas, the basilica is home to numerous events and celebrations religious and cultural. Among these, particularly important is the celebration of 'Maggio Barese', which includes a series of events in honor of the city's patron saint.

Useful Information

The Basilica of San Nicola is open all year and entry is free. It is advisable to dress appropriately to respect the place of worship. Tour guides are available for guided tours, which can be booked in advance.

Città Vecchia (Bari Vecchia)

Introduction

Bari Vecchia, also known as the Old Town is the beating and historic heart of Bari. This labyrinthine neighborhood is located on a small peninsula overlooking the Adriatic Sea and represents one of the most fascinating attractions of the city, thanks to its authentic atmosphere and the richness of history and culture that hosts.

History

The Old City has very ancient origins that date back to Roman times and even earlier to the times of the Peucezi, an indigenous population of southern Italy. During the Middle Ages, Bari Vecchia became an important commercial and cultural center, thanks to its strategic position on the sea. Over the centuries, the neighborhood has seen a succession of dominations, from the Byzantines to the Normans, from the Swabians to the Aragonese, each of whom left their own architectural and cultural mark.

Architecture and Attractions

The Old Town of Bari is characterized by narrow, winding streets, picturesque squares and stone houses that evoke an atmosphere of times gone by. Among the main attractions of the neighborhood are:

• Basilica of St. Nicholas: One of the most important and venerated churches of Christianity, which houses the relics of St. Nicholas.
• Cathedral of San Sabino: A magnificent Romanesque cathedral dating back to the 12th century.
• Castello Svevo: An imposing castle built by Frederick II of Swabia.
• Piazza Mercantile: One of the main squares of the city, rich in history and social life.
• Fortino di Sant' Antonio: An ancient fort with a breathtaking view of the sea.

Local Life

Bari Vecchia is also famous for its vibrant local life. Walking through its streets, it is possible to meet elderly women preparing handmade orecchiette, children playing in the street and the inhabitants of the neighborhood chatting among themselves. In the evening, the streets come alive with typical bars and restaurants where it is possible to taste Apulian cuisine.

Events and Traditions

The Old Town of Bari is the fulcrum of many traditions and celebrations, including the feast of St. Nicholas, which is held every year in May and attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. During this period, the streets of the neighborhood are decorated with lights and processions, fireworks shows and markets take place.

Conclusion

Visiting Bari Vecchia is like taking a dive into the past, in a a place where history, culture and local traditions come together in a unique and fascinating atmosphere. Whether you are a history buff, a lover of good food or simply looking for an authentic experience, Bari Vecchia has something to offer everyone.

Castello Svevo

History

The Swabian Castle of Bari is one of the main historical attractions of the city. Built in the 12th century at the behest of Roger II of Sicily, the castle was destroyed by the people of Bari and subsequently rebuilt by Emperor Frederick II of Swabia in 1233. This fortress has gone through numerous transformations and restorations over the centuries, reflecting the various dominations that occurred in the region, including the Angevin, Aragonese and Bourbon ones.

Architecture

The Swabian Castle is an impressive example of medieval military architecture. It has a trapezoidal plan with corner towers, a large moat and an internal courtyard. The structure is characterized by robust and massive walls, which demonstrate the strategic and defensive importance of the castle. Inside, there are various rooms and environments that host exhibitions and cultural events.

Current Function

Today, the Castello Svevo is an important cultural center and home to museums and temporary exhibitions . The fortress houses the Archaeological Museum of Bari, which displays finds and evidence of the history of the city and the region. Furthermore, the castle is often used as a location for cultural events, concerts and artistic events, attracting numerous visitors, both local and tourists.

Visits and Useful Information

The Castello Svevo is open to public and offers guided tours that allow you to explore the different areas of the fortress and learn more about its fascinating history. Opening times and ticket prices may vary, so it is advisable to check the updated information on the official website or at local tourist offices. The central location of the castle, close to the Old Town, makes it easily accessible on foot or by public transport.

Bari Seafront

General Description

The Bari seafront, also known as Lungomare Nazario Sauro, is one of the most iconic and evocative places in the city. It extends for several kilometers along the Adriatic coast, offering breathtaking views of the sea and a unique experience for residents and visitors.

History

The Lungomare di Bari was designed and built during the fascist period, in the 20s and 30s of the 20th century. Along the route you can admire numerous buildings in rationalist and liberty style, which bear witness to the architecture of the time.

Attractions and Activities

• Walks: The seafront is the ideal place for long walks, enjoying the sea breeze and the landscape.
• Cycle Paths: There are well-maintained cycle paths, perfect for those who love to explore the city by bicycle.
• Events: The seafront hosts numerous events throughout the year, including markets, concerts and cultural events.
• Restaurants and Cafés: Along the route there are numerous restaurants and cafés where you can taste the local cuisine and relax with a view of the sea.

How to get there

The Bari seafront is easily accessible both by car and public transport. Several bus lines connect the seafront with other parts of the city, and parking is also available nearby.

Best Time to Visit

The seafront can be visited at any time of the year , but the spring and summer months are the most pleasant for enjoying the mild climate and the numerous outdoor activities.

Curiosities

An interesting curiosity is that the seafront is home to the famous Fiera del Levante, one of the most important trade fairs in Italy, held every year in September.

Teatro Petruzzelli

History

The Petruzzelli Theater is one of the most important theaters in Bari and the fourth largest in Italy. Inaugurated in 1903, it was built by the Petruzzelli family, merchants of Trieste origin, according to the design of the engineer Angelo Cicciomessere, Petruzzelli's brother-in-law. The theater quickly became a cultural symbol of the city.

Architecture

The theater is a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture with decorative elements in Art Nouveau style. The interior is equally spectacular, adorned with frescoes and gilded decorations. The main hall can accommodate approximately 1,500 people and features extraordinary acoustics, making it ideal for operas, concerts and theatrical performances.

Renovation

In 1991, the Petruzzelli Theater was seriously damaged from arson. After years of controversies and bureaucratic difficulties, the renovation began in 2006 and ended in 2009. The theater was reopened with a grand ceremony and has since resumed its role as the city's cultural center.

Programming

Today, the Petruzzelli Theater offers a wide range of shows that include operas, classical music concerts, ballets, prose performances and pop music concerts. It is home to the Fondazione Lirico Sinfonica Petruzzelli e Teatri di Bari, which coordinates the artistic and cultural activities of the theatre.

Guided Tours

The theater also offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore its magnificent interiors, learn about its history and appreciate the art and architecture that characterize it. The visits are available in different languages ​​and must be booked in advance.

How to get there

The Petruzzelli Theater is located in Corso Cavour, in the heart of Bari. It can be easily reached on foot from the Bari central station and well connected by public transport. Parking is also available nearby for those arriving by car.

Cathedral of San Sabino

History

The Cathedral of San Sabino, located in the heart of the Old City of Bari, is one of the main churches of the city and represents an important example of Apulian Romanesque architecture. Its construction dates back to the 12th century, precisely starting from 1170, and was completed in 1178. The cathedral was built on the remains of an ancient Byzantine church destroyed by the Normans in 1156.

Architecture

The main façade of the cathedral is austere and simple, characterized by three portals decorated with bas-reliefs and a central rose window which adds a touch of elegance to the building. The interior of the cathedral is a Latin cross with three naves, supported by columns with decorated capitals. The crypt, located under the main altar, is one of the most fascinating elements of the church, with a vaulted ceiling supported by marble and granite columns.

Works of Art

Inside the Cathedral of San Sabino you can admire various works of art of great value. Among these, the medieval sculptures and reliefs stand out, as well as the icon of the Madonna Odegitria, a precious Byzantine painting from the 13th century. The cathedral also preserves relics of San Sabino, the patron saint of the cathedral, venerated by the faithful.

Events and Celebrations

The Cathedral of San Sabino is an active place of worship and regularly hosts masses, baptisms, weddings and other religious ceremonies. Every year, on February 9th, the feast of San Sabino is celebrated with a series of religious and civil events that attract numerous pilgrims and tourists.

Visit

The Cathedral of San Sabino is open to visitors all year round. Entrance is generally free, but during religious celebrations access may be limited. It is advisable to dress respectfully and appropriately for the place of worship.

Piazza Mercantile

Introduction

Piazza Mercantile is one of the most famous historic squares in Bari, located in the heart of the Old City (Bari Vecchia). This square has played a crucial role in the social and economic life of the city since the Middle Ages.

History

The history of Piazza Mercantile dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was the commercial and administrative center of the city. The square hosted the city market, from which its name derives, and saw numerous historical and social events that contributed to shaping the culture and identity of Bari.

Architecture and Monuments

The square is surrounded by historic buildings of great importance, including the Palazzo del Sedile, built in the 16th century, which served as the seat of the municipal administration. Another notable structure is the Colonna Infame, an ancient marble column that was used to punish debtors and criminals.

Events and Activities

Today, Piazza Mercantile is a lively meeting point for locals and tourists. The square regularly hosts cultural events, craft markets and events. It is also a popular place to sit in one of the many outdoor bars and restaurants and enjoy the historic atmosphere.

How to Get There

Piazza Mercantile is an easy walk from the central station of Bari, located about 15 minutes' walk away. It is also well served by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby.

Curiosities

An interesting curiosity about Piazza Mercantile is the presence of the 'Column of Justice,' where insolvent debtors were tied up and publicly humiliated. This practice ceased many centuries ago, but the column remains a fascinating historical symbol of the square.

Conclusion

Piazza Mercantile is a place that contains centuries of history and culture, uniting the past with the present in a unique atmosphere. Visiting this square offers a unique opportunity to better understand the rich historical legacy of Bari.

Church of Santa Teresa dei Maschi

History

The Church of Santa Teresa dei Maschi is one of the baroque jewels of the city of Bari. It was built in the 17th century by the Discalced Carmelite Fathers. The name 'dei Maschi' derives from the fact that initially the church was reserved for men, while women could attend mass from a grate located in the upper part.

Architecture

The facade of the church is a fine example of Baroque architecture, with elaborate sculptural details and a majestic entrance door. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with a single nave, frescoes and stuccos decorating the walls and ceiling.

Works of Art

Inside the Church of Santa Teresa dei Maschi you can admire several works of sacred art, including decorated altars, paintings and sculptures. One of the best-known elements is the high altar, richly decorated with polychrome marble and gilding.

Location

The church is located in the heart of the Old Town of Bari, a few steps from other important tourist attractions such as the Basilica of San Nicola and the Cathedral of San Sabino. Its central location makes it easily accessible to visitors exploring the historic centre.

Events and Functions

In addition to traditional religious functions, the Church of Santa Teresa dei Maschi occasionally hosts concerts of sacred music and other cultural events, making it a point of reference not only for the faithful but also for art and culture enthusiasts.

Fish Market

General Description

The Bari Fish Market is a point of reference for lovers of fresh fish and traditional Apulian cuisine. Located near the port, it is a place where local fishermen sell the catch of the day directly to consumers. This market is very popular with both locals and tourists who want an authentic experience.

History

The market has a long tradition dating back many decades. It has been a focal point for the local economy, supplying fresh fish to restaurants, trattorias and the citizens of Bari. Its strategic position near the sea facilitates the transport of fish from boats to sales stalls.

Opening Hours

The Fish Market is generally open every day from early morning until early afternoon. It is advisable to visit early to find the best selection of fresh fish.

Products Offered

At the Bari Fish Market you can find a wide range of fish products, including:

• Blue fish (mackerel, sardines, anchovies)
• Seafood (mussels, clams, oysters)
• Crustaceans (prawns, crabs, lobsters)
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• White fish (bream, sea bass, cod)
• Octopus and cuttlefish

Visiting Experience

Visiting the Fish Market of Bari is a unique sensorial experience. The bright colors of the fish, the scents of the sea and the lively atmosphere create an engaging environment. Many visitors also appreciate the chance to interact directly with fishermen and learn more about local fishing traditions.

Tips for Visitors

Some useful tips for those visiting the Fish Market of Bari:

• Bring cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards.
• Be prepared to haggle a little on prices, though they are generally fair.
• Wear comfortable, water-resistant shoes, as the floor can be slippery.
• Don't forget to bring a cooler if you plan to buy fresh fish to take home.

St. Anthony's Fort

History and Architecture

St. Anthony's Fort, located in the old city of Bari, is one of the most important historical symbols of the city. Built in the 14th century, the fort was originally erected for defensive purposes, to protect the city from enemy incursions. The structure has been restored several times over the centuries and today presents itself as a testimony of medieval military architecture.

Location and View

The Fort is located in a strategic position on the Bari seafront, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the Adriatic Sea. Its elevated position allows you to enjoy a spectacular view both towards the old city and the open sea.

Current Use

Today, the Fort of Sant'Antonio is used as a space cultural and hosts various cultural events, art exhibitions and public events. It is a very popular place for both residents and tourists, especially during the summer months, when the fort becomes a venue for outdoor concerts and shows.

How to reach it

The fort is easily reachable on foot from the old town of Bari. It is located a short distance from the Basilica of San Nicola and the Cathedral of San Sabino, making it an ideal stop during a tourist walk in the historic center. It is also well connected by public transport, with bus stops nearby.

Useful Information

The Fortino di Sant'Antonio is open to the public and entry is generally free. However, during special events or temporary exhibitions, an entrance fee may be required. It is advisable to check the opening hours and any restrictions before your visit.