Bari is a city in southern Italy, located on the shores of the Adriatic Sea. It is the capital of the Puglia region and the province of Bari. As the second-largest city in southern Italy, after Naples, Bari has historically been an important agricultural, industrial, and commercial hub.

The city gained municipal status during the Roman era, following its Greek invasion and subsequent conquest by the Romans. From 870 to 1071, Bari was under Byzantine rule, becoming a key commercial, political, and military center of the Eastern Roman Empire. Later, the Normans conquered the city and transformed its architecture, building palaces, churches, and squares that continue to define its unique character.

Modern Bari and Main Attractions

The modern part of the city, known as Murattiano, is notable for:

A beautiful seaside promenade, perfect for leisurely strolls.

A bustling shopping district, with boutiques and local markets.

Bari’s top tourist attractions include:

Basilica di San Nicola (Saint Nicholas Cathedral) – a major pilgrimage site and a symbol of the city’s medieval Golden Age.

Emperor Augustus Promenade, the city’s main marketplace.

Nazario Sauro Promenade, offering breathtaking sea views.

Norman-Swabian Castle, an imposing medieval fortress.

Palazzo della Provincia (Palace of the Province), a historically significant building.

The Castellana Caves, a stunning underground cave system featuring a 60-meter vertical tunnel with impressive white stalactites. The guided tour through this natural labyrinth lasts about two hours.

Teatro Petruzzelli, one of Italy’s most renowned theaters.

Historic city streets, including Piazza del Ferrarese, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, and Via Sparano.

Torre Quetta Beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming in the Adriatic waters.

Bari is also a major port on the Adriatic Sea, where visitors can:

Rent boats for private excursions.

Take ferry cruises to Greece.

Festivals and Events

Bari hosts several major events each year, such as:

The National Eucharistic Congress of Italy, held from March 21–29, 2005, attended by Pope Benedict XVI.

Festa di San Nicola (The Festival of Saint Nicholas) – celebrated from May 7–9 in the historic center, featuring religious processions, concerts, and cultural performances.

How to Get to Bari

You can fly to Bari with Wizz Air, ITA Airways, TAROM, Lufthansa, and Swiss, which operate flights to Bari Karol Wojtyła International Airport.