 Bari is the second largest continental city of Southern Italy, with a population of 326,201 (2001) along 116 sq. km. Capital of Apulia (or Puglia) region, on the Adriatic Sea, its province is the fifth largest and most populated in Italy, with 1,551,331 inhabitants (2001) and more than 5,000 sq. km
In the 1990s the population in the city saw a consistent decrease, according to the national trend, in favor of the towns in the first metropolitan ring. It was necessary to institute the Metropolitan Area: today the project is underway, with 12 towns who already opted to be in, for a total of around 600,000 inhabitants.
The town consists of three parts: the closely built old town on the peninsula to the north, with the splendid Basilica of San Nicola (Saint Nicholas), the Cathedral of San Sabino (1035 - 1171) and the Swabian castle, is now also one of the major nightlife districts; the Murattiano town to the south (with its stunning promenade on the sea), major shopping district (with the famous Via Sparano and Via Argiro) and hearth of the city, which is laid out on a rectangular plan; the newest chaotic city all around, fastly grown in the '60s - '70s.
 The church of San Nicola (Saint Nicholas) was founded in 1087 to receive the relics of this saint, which were brought from Myra in Lycia, and now lie beneath the altar in the crypt. The church is one of the four Palatine churches of Apulia (the others being the cathedrals of Acquaviva and Altamura, and the church of Monte Sant' Angelo sul Gargano).
This city is full of great cultural and historical sights that are like candy for the eyes. The medieval old-town is so cute but be wary of entering during the night as it can be a dangerous place for anyone who is not familiar with the small alleyways and streets. |
In this section you will find the very best of the best Bari Luxury hotels and Bari hotels and resorts. Bari Attractions. Wonderful all-inclusive Bari tours. Exhilerating active vacations and Skiing in exotic places seldom seen by the average tourist. Bari's finest villas.Bari's National Parks. Bari Yachting Vacations. Bari luxury cruise vacations. Luxurious guided tours to all of Bari's most famous destinations. ---plus tons of enjoyable virtual tours and streaming videos---You will find everything here such as museums and monuments except the sunscreen. 
