Stunning Puglia is full of great little towns and cities, with Bari, the regional capital, being one of the most popular for tourists to head to. Easily reachable from all of our Puglia villas and hotels, Bari is a great place to spend a day out and experience the relaxed vibe, beautiful buildings and great atmosphere that you want to enjoy on an authentic Italian holiday. Here are five great places and landmarks in the city that you won’t want to miss during your visit:
Basilica di San Nicola
Perhaps the most famous building in Bari, this striking church made from white limestone was commissioned back in 1089, and houses the remains and relics of St Nicholas of Myra, the patron saint of travellers, sailors and children. During the first half of May, St Nicholas is also celebrated around the Basilica and throughout Bari with all sorts of events, including processions, fireworks, and many other celebrations.
Borgo Murattiano
Borgo Murattiano is one of Bari’s thriving shopping areas, lined with gorgeous architecture built in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Some of the most stunning buildings found in this area include the Teatro Petruzzelli, the fourth largest theatre in Italy, and the neo-Gothic Venetian Fizzarotti Palace, a grand yet eclectic building.
Castello Svevo
With parts of this impressive castle dating from as far back as 1233, Castello Svevo is steeped in Norman history, showing part of the many international influences that have been reflected in the area over the centuries. Today you can still wander around the grounds of the castle, enjoying the small museum filled with treasures and relics, the majestic staircase and the enchanting courtyard.
Cathedral of San Sabino
The main church used by the people of Bari, the current building was built in 1170, and is one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture surviving in all of Puglia. Bishop San Sabino’s relics are still preserved in the crypt today, with the cathedral’s façade being a particular point of interest. The façade features some fascinating decorations of imaginary creatures and monsters, as well as a rose window.
Bari Vecchia
Home to some of the attractions already listed, this old-town district of Bari is also an attraction within itself. You’ll feel like you’ve taken a step back in time as you discover Piazza del Ferrarese’s bars and cafes, Piazza Mercantile’s important political buildings, the district’s winding alleyways and women making the traditional dish of orecchiette out on the streets.
Images: Teens4Unity, Tango7174, Leoman3000, Michele Zaccaria, available under Creative Commons or GNU Free Documentation Licences