Official Conference Guide
Suggested Itinerary
These are the points of the suggested itinerary, part 1
1. Teatro Comunale Niccolò Piccinni
2. Castello Svevo di Bari
3. Gelateria Gentile
4. La Via delle Orecchiette
5. La signora Nunzia delle orecchiette
6. Panificio Santa Rita – Bari Vecchia
7. Pizzeria Di Cosimo Mauro
8. Basilica Cattedrale Metropolitana Primaziale San Sabino
9. Basilica San Nicola
10. Ruderi di Santa Maria del Buon Consiglio
These are the points of the suggested itinerary, part 2
1. Ruderi di Santa Maria del Buon Consiglio
2. Museo Archeologico di Santa Scolastica
3. Lungomare Imperatore Augusto
4. Piazza Mercantile
5. Fortino di Sant’Antonio
6. Muraglia di Bari
7. Teatro Margherita
8. Teatro Petruzzelli
9. Palazzo Mincuzzi
Museum and Historical heritage of Bari
Castello Svevo is a prime example of medieval military architecture. Built in the 12th century, the castle showcases a combination of Norman, Swabian, and Angevin architectural elements. Its massive stone walls, imposing towers, and defensive battlements reflect its original purpose as a fortress. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, historical documents, and archaeological finds.
- Ticket: Full 8€; • Ticket office: 9:00-18:00
Visit of the famous Arco Basso street a food lover’s paradise. It is lined with small, family-run kitchens where local women, often referred to as “nonnas” (grandmothers), handcraft orecchiette pasta. These pasta-makers sit at their doorsteps, skillfully shaping the small, ear-like pasta shells, a tradition passed down through generations.
Cooking Classes: Some of the local artisans offer cooking classes for visitors interested in learning the art of making orecchiette
Cooking Classes in Bari – Tripadvisor.
- Admission Ticket: Free
Romanesque architecture symbol, including intricate stone carvings, rounded arches, and robust columns. Its facade is adorned with stunning reliefs and sculptures, depicting scenes from the Bible and intricate patterns. Beneath the cathedral lies a crypt containing the relics of Saint Sabinus, an early Christian bishop, as well as a collection of ancient artifacts and historical treasures.
- Ticket: Free
The Basilica is a fine example of Romanesque architecture, with its distinctive features including sturdy stone walls, intricate façade decorations, and a grand entrance adorned with sculpted reliefs.
It is a significant pilgrimage site for Christians and is particularly associated with Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of Bari. The relics of Saint Nicholas were brought to this basilica from Myra, in modern-day Turkey, in the 11th century, making it an important center of devotion.
Inside the basilica, visitors are greeted with a sense of reverence and awe. The interior features stunning Byzantine-style frescoes, ornate altar pieces, and a striking ceiling with golden mosaics.
The crypt of San Nicola houses the tomb of Saint Nicholas and is a place of deep spiritual significance.
- Ticket: Free
In the old city, close to the Basilica, the museum contains sculptures from the Roman era and historical artifacts from the Middle Ages of immense value and international renown, predominantly from the Norman and Angevin periods. These include the enamelled crown of Roger the Norman, the golden seal of Charles of Anjou, numerous Byzantine coins, and a majestic stylized lion from the 11th century. The Museum also houses numerous documents from the precious Nicolaian Archive, which bear witness to significant milestones in the history of the Basilica and the city. There is also a collection of precious sacred icons and decorated glass bottles containing the manna of Saint Nicholas, along with valuable items related to the Orthodox confession, providing further testament to the ecumenism of the Nicholasian cult.
• Reservation on Prenota una visita al Museo Nicolaiano – Accademia cittadella Nicolaiana • (sito con problemi) Monday- Sunday: 10:00-17:00, Wednesday: Closed
It is a fascinating site that provides a glimpse into the ancient history and urban development of this coastal region. It contains the remains of ancient structures and artifacts dating back to various periods, including Roman, Byzantine, and medieval times. Among the prominent features of the site are the Roman ruins, which include the remains of Roman villas, baths, and other structures. These remnants showcase the architectural and engineering skills of the Roman civilization. The archaeological area also contains traces of Byzantine influence, with the presence of early Christian basilicas and mosaics. These artifacts shed light on the religious and cultural aspects of the region during the Byzantine era. In addition to the earlier periods, the site features medieval elements, including the foundations of a medieval church. These remnants provide insights into the medieval development of Bari. The archaeological area of San Pietro is an integral part of the Museum S. Scolastica. Adjacent to the western facade of the monastery it can be accessed directly from the Bastion or from piazza S. Pietro.
ECME2023 Exclusive Access: Sunday, 01/10/2023 Registration 17:00-18:00 and Welcome party 18:00-20:00
Public opening hours: Monday – Saturday 09:00 – 19:00, Sundays and holidays 09:00 – 13:00• Admission Ticket: Free•
Google Maps Link San Pietro archaeological area
Google Maps Link Museo di Santa Scolastica
A small square in the historic center. It is easily distinguished by the suggestive remains of the ancient single-apsed church. From an archaeological and urbanistic point of view, the square of Santa Maria del Buon Consiglio is one of the most important squares in the ancient village of Bari. It was a place of worship and, naturally, also of gathering, currently visible in the open air. What remains are the perimeter walls and eight Roman columns. The surviving floor, made of limestone and marble, is also remarkable. Assemblies of citizens were held in the Church, and thus, the “Good Counsel” was needed to make decisions for community.
• Ticket: Free
Piazza Ferrarese takes its name from a merchant, Stefano Fabri, from Ferrara, who sold his wares here during the 17th century. The square faces the Imperatore Augusto waterfront, in front of the old port, and is surrounded by the former Fish Market building, (1840). Ruins of the ancient Roman Appia Traiana road are visible. At the end, you can glimpse the Starita Palace, built on the remains of an ancient arsenal. In this square stood the Porta Nuova, built in 1612 by Philip III of Spain to allow access in the Piazza Mercantile market. Piazza Mercantile, dates back to the 17th century. It was originally established to facilitate the import and export of goods through the nearby old port. Today, it serves as the main entrance to the oldest part of the city, known as the “borgo antico.” This charming square is steeped in history and surrounded by picturesque buildings that showcase Bari’s rich architectural heritage. Visitors can explore its cobblestone streets, enjoy local cuisine in nearby restaurants, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic area, making Piazza Mercantile a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city of Bari.
The palace was built on top of an underground spring called “Mare Isabella”, where old convents and rest stations used to offer shelter to merchants, caravans and crusaders since the Middle Ages.
The palace has several architectural layers, dating back to the 13th century. In 1879, Emanuele Fizzarotti, a banker and entrepreneur who was very interested in culture, art and music modified the palace, adding the second and third floor and applying a Venetian Gothic facade. He also commissioned the architect Ettore Bernich and various artists to decorate the palace with different styles and materials. The palace became a cultural container and a work of patronage that involved local and national craftsmen. Some of the most remarkable rooms are the Venetian Room, which celebrates the link between Bari and Venice; the Room of Arts and Crafts, which exalts the economic activities of Puglia; and the Esoteric Room, which reveals Fizzarotti’s passion for occultism and cabala.
•English guided tours are scheduled every first and third Saturday of the month. Italian Tours are available every Saturday at 18:30. Private guided tours are also available (PugliArte at +39 340 339 4708) • Ticket: Full 10€
The Museo Civico di Bari is housed in the historic Palazzo Simi, a splendid Renaissance palace. The museum’s vast collections span various periods and include artifacts from ancient to modern times. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, including archaeological finds, sculptures, ceramics, and paintings. The museum’s archaeological section provides valuable insights into the ancient history of Bari and the surrounding region. It showcases artifacts from prehistoric, Roman, and Byzantine periods, shedding light on the city’s rich past. The museum boasts an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures, featuring works by renowned Italian artists from the medieval to Renaissance periods. The museum also features ethnographic exhibits that highlight the traditions, culture, and daily life of the people of Bari and Apulia. The displays are thoughtfully curated to provide historical context, allowing visitors to appreciate the significance of each artifact and artwork within the broader narrative of Bari’s cultural heritage. The Museo Civico di Bari serves as an educational hub, offering workshops, lectures, and cultural events that engage both locals and tourists in the appreciation of art and history.
View-sea and promenade of Bari
La Muraglia, also known as the city walls or fortifications, is a historic defensive structure in Bari, Italy. It encircles the old town and is a testament to the city’s rich history and strategic importance. The construction of La Muraglia began in the 9th century during the Byzantine period and continued through subsequent centuries. The walls were fortified by various rulers, including the Normans and the Swabians, to protect the city from invaders. La Muraglia provides a scenic path along its walls that visitors can walk along. It offers picturesque views of the Adriatic Sea and Bari Vecchia, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The Fortino di Sant’Antonio, also known as the Fortino di Sant’Antonio, is a historic fort located near the seafront in Bari Vecchia, adjacent to La Muraglia. It is a small but intriguing military structure that adds to the historical character of the area. The fort’s architecture combines elements of the Renaissance and Baroque styles. It features a distinctive, compact design with sturdy stone walls and battlements.
Situated right by the sea, they offer panoramic views of the Adriatic coast and the surrounding area, making it an excellent spot for taking in the sea breeze and enjoying the picturesque scenery.
• Free
Teatro Margherita stands out for its distinctive octagonal design, which was quite innovative when it was built. The theatre’s architectural style combines elements of the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements, making it an intriguing blend of artistic influences. The theatre was inaugurated in 1914 and quickly became a hub for cultural events, including opera, theatre, ballet, and concerts. It played a crucial role in Bari’s cultural scene during the early 20th century. After a period of decline, Teatro Margherita underwent extensive renovation and restoration efforts in the early 2000s, aiming to preserve its historical and architectural significance. Today, Teatro Margherita continues to serve as a cultural venue, hosting a variety of performances and events, ranging from theatrical productions to contemporary art exhibitions and music concerts.
• Ticket: Free
The Teatro Petruzzelli is the largest theatre of the city of Bari and the fourth Italian theatre by size. The Petruzzelli stage saw many great classics of the opera repertoire (headed by Verdi and Puccini) and a series of new performances in line with trends on the international art scene. Many of the world’s most famous and popular singers performed at the Petruzzelli, including Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo, José Carreras, Katia Ricciarelli, Raina Kabaivanska and Cecilia Gasdia. The Petruzzelli’s music seasons were among the finest anywhere in Italy. The spotlights had just turned off on Bellini’s Norma when, on the night of the 27th of October 1991, a fire destroyed the theatre, a dagger in the heart of the city’s artistic life, leaving the citizens in dismay at such an unimaginable tragedy. In 2009, with the reopening of Petruzzelli, completely rebuilt exactly as it was in its basic form, but with state-of-the-art facilities, both in terms of security and technology, the Foundation’s artistic and cultural activities have rediscovered their natural stage.
Guided tours available: info @ Box office • Ticket: Full 5€
Palazzo dell’Acqua, or the Water Palace, is an architectural gem located in the historic center of Bari, Italy. This historic building once served as a reservoir for the city’s water supply. The palace’s architectural style combines elements of neoclassical and Renaissance design. Its façade is adorned with elegant columns, decorative reliefs, and a prominent clock, showcasing the architectural grandeur of the era. Today, Palazzo dell’Acqua serves as an exhibition space and cultural venue. It frequently hosts art exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs, making it a dynamic hub for local and international artists and enthusiasts.
• Ticket: Free Opened: Saturday, Sunday, reservation: info.visitapalazzoaqp@gmail.com
The exhibition path consists of twenty-two rooms, some of which are quite spacious and rich in artworks. It is a fascinating journey that provides extensive documentation of Apulian art – or art related to Apulia – from the 11th to the 19th century. The exhibited material includes a medieval section (sculptures from the 11th to the 14th centuries, Apulian icons from the 12th to the 14th centuries); Venetian paintings from churches in the region; Apulian painting from the 15th and 16th centuries and Neapolitan or Neapolitan school painting from the 17th and 18th centuries; a valuable collection of Giaquinto’s paintings, a collection of 19th-century paintings; Apulian ceramics from the 17th and 18th centuries, Neapolitan nativity scenes, and historical clothing.
• Ticket: Full 5€ • Tuesday- Saturday: 9:00-18:30, Sunday: 9:00-13:30, e-mail: pinacoteca@cittametropolitana.ba.it
The seafront is undoubtedly one of the main attractions of Bari. The promenade of Bari is one of the longest promenade in Italy and Europe and with its cast iron street lamps that illuminate the whole coast of the city (there are 197) offers every day, especially at sunset, a show of lights and colors that only a place like Bari can offer in a similar context. Lined with fantastic architecture and white washed buildings, the promenade has a pleasant atmosphere and the views out to the sea are sublime. Walking east, Spiaggia di Pane e Pomodoro (Bread and Tomato Beach) is a lovely beach which offers a peaceful retreat with its golden sands and inviting waters. It’s a perfect spot to relax, sunbathe, or take a refreshing dip in the sea.
• Ticket: Free
FOOD
Puglia is the land of plenty. The fertile heel of Italy’s boot is packed with silvery trees heavy with chubby green olives and fringed with sun-baked beaches. Puglia is a mosaic of cultural influences pieced together by the handful of dwellers that left their mark through the centuries – you can see it in the architecture, hear it in the region’s dialect and taste it in the food.
The best way to understand Bari is through food: diving into plates of just-caught seafood from the Adriatic biting into jammy fist-sized figs or tearing chunks of bread from rustic loaves to soak up the remnants of a slow-cooked sugo. It’s about tasting the landscape – when the ingredients are this good, you can confidently cut the frills. Bountiful local produce and centuries of culinary secrets passed on from generation to generation mean that tradition will always reign supreme here, but there’s a new generation of chefs carving out their place in Puglia’s culinary landscape. From the humble trattorias helmed by nonnas to the Michelin-starred hotspots offering a contemporary take on the classics, these are the best restaurants in Bari to book:
At Terranima, diners can enjoy traditional Apulian pasta dishes prepared with high-quality local ingredients. The restaurant has an easygoing vibe and is located in an early-twentieth-century courtyard. It also hosts cultural events, book presentations, and study days dedicated to the history and traditions of Puglia.
Osteria Vini e Cucina is a popular Italian tavern that serves up authentic Pugliese cuisine. The service can be slow, but the food is delicious and worth the wait. There is one English-speaking waiter who is very polite.
This restaurant located in the city centre, offers a great chance to enjoy local delicacies like orecchiette alle fave (a typical pasta made with broad beans) or cicoria (a type of bitter lettuce) or cime di rape and cavatelli (homemade pasta with seafood sauce). Warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Italian restaurant La Locanda Di Federico is a must-try for those looking for classic Puglian dishes with stunning surroundings. With elegant ceilings, medieval artwork, and rustic charm, this place oozes atmosphere and confidence in their food. The menu has a wide range of regional specialty dishes that are sure to please even the most demanding guests.
The seafood restaurant Al Pescatore is a great place to visit if you’re looking for fresh and good quality food. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is relaxing and elegant.
Shodai is a trendy, well-loved Japanese restaurant in Bari that serves up classic dishes alongside some innovative sushi and noodle options.
If you’re looking for a place to eat traditional dishes at very cheap prices, Blue Eyes is the perfect spot. The food is hearty and full of flavour, and the servings are huge. It can be quite busy in there, so reservations are recommended.
La Uascezze is a small, intimate restaurant in Bari, Italy with exposed stone walls and outdoor tables. The menu offers traditional Bari cuisine which is delicious and affordable. You can enjoy authentic local food in a nice atmosphere at a good price.
La Tana del Polpo is a popular southern Italian restaurant that specializes in seafood dishes. The staff is warm and welcoming, and the atmosphere is informal and genial. The food is excellent, and the wine selection is extensive.
Located in a restored medieval building, Ristorante Biancofiore features fresh seafood dishes prepared with love and attention to detail. The brightly lit and airy room has white walls and clean lines, lending an understated elegance to the setting. The wine list is robust and includes many natural wines from Italy.
Opera ristorante Bari is a seafood restaurant with traditional dishes that focuses on attracting tourists. The food tastes great and looks appealing from an aesthetic standpoint, as well as convincingly proving its taste. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is located in the heart of the city.
This seafood restaurant is a family-owned and operated business that has been in operation for forty years. The focus of the restaurant is to serve up simple, flavourful dishes using only the best local produce. Highlights include the delicious risotto made with two types of fish, as well as oven-cooked salted bass fish. You can also find a good selection of wines.
Pescobar is a small, cheerful seafood restaurant with a great selection of Puglian wine and Italian craft beer in Bari, Italy. Offering fish sandwiches, salads and grilled seafood, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some fresh seafood.
The PerBacco restaurant is an elegant and popular dining spot in the heart of Bari. It specializes in traditional Mediterranean cuisine, prepared with quality ingredients. The wine list is extensive and will satisfy even the most refined palates.
Panificio Fiore comes highly recommended as an authentic eatery renowned for its Focaccia Barese, a celebrated and widely recognized takeout dish from Bari.
La Bul is a well-known and highly rated restaurant. With an exquisite interior design as well as a lovely garden, La Bul features some of the best seafood, Italian and Mediterranean dishes in town. The food is always fresh and carefully prepared using only local ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for something special or just want to enjoy an ordinary evening meal, La Bul is definitely worth considering.
Traditional Italian dishes & a set menu in a charming tavern with outdoor tables under stone arches.
The Antica Pizzeria da Michele is a famous pizzeria located in Naples, which recently opened a location in Bari. This pizzeria is renowned for its authentic Neapolitan pizzas, especially the Margherita pizza and the Marinara pizza. The pizzeria was founded in 1870 and has become an icon in the city of Naples and around the world.
Very funny environment with the waiter singing on top his lungs on old Italian songs or traditional ones, ideal for an informal evening with friends. You can both trying their famous Panzerotti takeaway or have a typical local dinner in the restaurant.
Out of a passion for making drinks came the idea for Luau Tiki Bar, a concept bar in pure exotic style that aims to portray the idyllic atmosphere and mixing style of typical bars that originated in the American tiki era in the mid-1930s.
Both cool and refined, this cocktail bar is a popular meeting place near the Petruzzelli Theatre. A fruitful stopover for an aperitif!
Lo Svevo – Birreria offers exquisite dishes and a unique environment, near to the famous arco meraviglia. Enjoy a pleasant evening in their wonderful outdoor space.
This establishment provides a distinctive experience from dawn till dusk. In the mornings, it thrives as a bustling fish market, and as the sun sets, it evolves into a communal hub where folks gather to converse and savor beer. The ambiance exudes warmth and hospitality, retaining an authentic allure without succumbing to excessive touristy vibes. Furthermore, the staff is exceptionally welcoming, the location is superb, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. It’s an undeniably remarkable destination that caters to a wide range of interests and preferences.
A large artisanal confectionery laboratory, parlor, chocolatier, concept store, bar, bakery in some of Apulia’s most beautiful locations. The family culinary passion aims to satisfy the taste of each customer. The Martinucci Laboratory concept is the result of that story and these paths.
Caffè Cognetti is a family run cafe and roastery near the centre of Bari. For many years a traditional Italian cafe, head roaster Davide Roveto discovered specialty coffee roasting after attending several courses and trips around the world. He began roasting specialty coffee on a small machine situated in the building next to the cafe.
La Ciclatera is a quirky, small bar boasting an array of cocktails, local wines, and craft beers. As you sip your drinks, tantalise your taste buds with tempting crepes and platters featuring an assortment of mixed cold cuts and cheeses. The fun and vibrant decor create an inviting atmosphere, and whether you choose to sit at the tables inside or outside, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a delightful evening.
A little ice-cream shop near to Svevo Castle. Old traditional recipes and passion for quality raw materials are what has always distinguished the Gentile family. Since 1880, the art of homemade gelato has been handed down for generations, offering a genuine experience, even overseas.
A reinterpretation of the classical Panzerotto: lower size, but very unusual and intense taste combinations.
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