Old map of Bari

Probably founded between 1600 and 1100 B.C. by the Illyrians. Name probably derives from that of Barione, leader of one Illyrian group. After the fall of Roman Empire, Bari was involved in the war between the Goths, and later the Longobards, against the ByzantinesBari 9th century A.D. :the Arabs succeeded the Longobards and settled in Bari for about 30 years. After 871: the city came back under the Byzantine rule against which they rebelled after 100 A.D. 1071: the Normans conquered the city. 1087: St. Nicholas’ holy remains were stolen from Myra (Turkey) by a group of sailors and brought to Bari. The building of a Basilica began.Basilica Frederick II of Swabia ruled in Apulia where he built many castles, among which the Swabian Castle of Bari and the mysterious Castel del Monte near Bari.ApuliaCastel del Monte Beginning of the 19th c.: the French ruled over Bari. 1808: Murat (Napoleon’s brother in law) became King of Naples and started building the new part of the city, a modern district which was (and still is) called “Murattiano” after him. 1860: the Bourbons ruled over Bari.  back

History of BariThe Basilica of St. Nicholas The cathedral of St. Sabine The Swabian castle Bari

Castel del Monte The Castellana caves The Trulli Apulia The Cathedral of Trani The coast

Remarkable facade divided into three parts by pilasters and flanked by two asymmetrical corner towers. Brilliant example of Romanesque style. Interior: the presbytery dominated by 12 th c. ciborium, the oldest in Apulia. Dominican fathers, in charge of the church, today collect the Holy Manna (a holy liquid that yearly oozes from the Saint’s relics). Impressive stone carving work and decorations: main door is flanked by two columns supported by oxen.  back

1034: building began and was completed in : devastated under William I and rebuilt in the 2 nd half of 12 th c. 1735: Baroque re-styling 20 th c. all Baroque traces were removed the crypt still shows the various layers of previous buildings superimposed in the course of the time. Façade divided into three parts by two pilasters and surmounted by a tympanum Interior: one nave and two aisles Series of triple lancet windows of a woman’s mock gallery Floor: unique mosaics decorated with geometrical, plant and animal patterns.  back

Located in the Old Town, Norman (Swabian) Castle is one of the major fortified structures built in 11 th c. by the Normans 1156 it was destroyed and later re-built by Frederick II 15 th c.: Isabella of Aragon took up residence in the castle and transformed it into a rich Renaissance fortification.  back

The coast of Apulia is 800 km long, Its nature is varied: stretches of sand alternating with rocks Apulia’s landscape and seascape shows the age –old relationship between man and sea  back

Best-known speleologic area in the whole of Italy (one of the Apulia’s main tourist attractions). Marvellous and different shaped stalactites and stalagmites concretions. Stalactites and stalagmites were formed by rainwater which collected at surface level and easily penetrated the limestone surface. The winding course of these waters cut out caves and tunnels; stalactites and stalagmites form a breathtaking sight.  back

One of the most remarkable example of Apulian Romanesque style Splendid scenario of its setting: marvellous large square directly over looking the sea. Elegant shape, façade divided into two levels, flanked by slender belltower. Façade dominated by superb main bronze portal.  back

Uncertain origin of these constructions (probably temporary houses built in order to avoid paying taxes to the landowner). Alberobello is the “capital” of the Trulli area. They have been declared an International Human Resource by UNESCO. Typical circular shape, made of dry stone with a cone-shaped roof. Whitewashed walls Astrological and religious symbols painted of their roofs.  back

not built for defence purpose, it has a unique octagonal plan, with eight equally octogonal towers – recurrent use of number “8” it is wrapped in mystery; it follows precise algebraic and astronomical laws, it is almost as if it had been designed as a gigantic medieval space observatory! Dates back to Emperor Frederick II’s time and stands 50 km from Bari. Unusual, mysterious and esoteric design; its structure embraced various styles and cultures, from classical to humanist, from Romanesque to Gothic but above all Arab and Cistercian cultures, both dear to the Emperor.  back