Today Bari is an important commercial centre and a centre of the chemical, shipbuilding, engineering and fish processing industries. The city is home to a university and a naval school.
History in the ancient streets
The historic heart of Bari, known as Bari Vecchia, is a labyrinth of narrow streets where time seems to stand still. Among the stone houses, the smell of freshly made pasta "orecchiette", made by local women on the streets. On every corner there is a chapel, a small church or mysterious courtyards that beckon you to explore.
The Basilica di San Nicola (Basilica of Saint Nicholas) dominates the historic centre, important not only for Catholics but also for the Orthodox faithful who make pilgrimages to see the saint's relics. Nearby is the Cathedral of Saint Sabinus, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.
Bari - a city of two faces
While the old town embodies tradition and spiritual wealth, the new part of Bari (Murattiano) shines with the elegance of its wide boulevards and neoclassical palaces. Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, the city's main thoroughfare, separates the historic and modern areas, offering the chance to sit in cafés and watch the hustle and bustle of the city.
For shopping enthusiasts, there's Via Sparano, where you'll find boutiques of world-class brands, while fans of art and culture head to Teatro Petruzzelli, one of Italy's largest opera houses.
The harbour and the sea
Bari is one of the most important ports on the Adriatic Sea. Ferries depart from here to Croatia, Greece and Albania. The coastal promenade Lungomare Nazario Sauro offers spectacular views of the sea, and is the ideal place for evening walks. Fishermen unload their catch here every morning, and the local markets offer a taste of the freshest from the sea.
Gastronomy
Bari is a paradise for food lovers. Try the local speciality of focaccia barese , which is enriched with olives, tomatoes and olive oil. Seafood plays a starring role - for example, cozze ripiene (stuffed mussels) or raw mussels served with just lemon.
And of course pasta! Orecchiette con cime di rapa (small pasta in the shape of ears with broccoli) is an iconic dish that should not be missed.
Bari as the gateway to Puglia
Bari is not only a destination in itself, but also an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding Puglia. Just a short drive away lie the fairytale towns of Polignano a Mare and Monopoli, or the famous Valle d'Itria area with its trulli - round stone houses.
