Bari, a typical maritime and market city, is the capital of the Apulia region and the second biggest city in the south of Italy. The city developed industrially in the second half of the twentieth century and now boasts an important trade fair, the largest in the south. Tourists visit Bari for its historic buildings, artwork and fascinating town centre, as well as for the beaches which surround the area.
The people of Bari love to repeat this phrase: "If Paris was on the sea, it would look like a small Bari". Obviously, this is an exaggeration, but it tells us a lot about the pride (and sense of humour) in this area. This is a city with a deep sense of history and art, with rich cultural roots and a modern business outlook.
Bari was an important city under the Greeks, became a Roman municipality, and was later governed by the Saracens, the Venetians, the Normans, the Aragons and finally the Bourbons before finally becoming a part of Italy. As a link between the Greek and Middle-Eastern worlds, Bari experienced its Golden Age during the medieval period. The glories of that age are perfectly symbolised by the stupendous Cathedral and Church of San Nicola.
The Emperor Augustus Promenade – the main thoroughfare in the city – is also worthy of note, as is the Nazario Sauro Promenade, which provides a magnificent walkway along the sea front, as well as superb views over the city itself. To the left, is the S. Nicola jetty where every year, on the 8th of May, the ceremony of the thaumaturgy statue takes place. The statue is taken to sea on a boat where it is worshipped by pilgrims and believers. In this area, you can sample the marvellous seafood in the working class bay area known as the “nderre a la lanze”.Read More
