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Bari - sky guide
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Situated on Italy's ‘heel’, the port city of Bari has long been a crossroads between East and West. It retains a cosmopolitan feel and a civic pride reflected in its buildings and people's attitudes, and definitely merits more attention than a brief stopover on the way to Greece or Croatia.
The major attraction in the medieval old town is the Basilica di San Nicola, which was completed in 1197. A legacy of the Norman conquests of southern Italy, the basilica is an example of some of the finest stonework in the country. It also houses the remains of Saint Nicola, which were looted from Constantinople following its pillaging by the Venetians in 1204. The mosaic behind the altar and the 12th century canopy above it are also worth viewing.
Nearby is the fascinating medieval Cattedrale di San Sabino. In nearly a thousand years, the church has changed little and still retains the original wooden roof and an ancient atmosphere. The Museum of Archaeology details the city's and region's history from pre-Roman times to the 20th century. Also, visit the 12th century Norman castle, known as Svevo Castle, built to defend the city during its tumultuous past.
A good place to walk and to soak up the atmosphere is on Piazza Umberto I, which is thronged with people and stalls selling jewellery, books and prints. The layout of the streets themselves also makes for an interesting, if confusing, walk - as they were planned to ensure invaders got lost. Be careful here though; the problem of moped gangs snatching bags and cameras, while not as abundant as a few years ago, still exists.
If you’ve had enough of winding lanes, take a trip out of the city to explore the romantic secluded coves, woods, waterfalls and green hills of Gargano National Park. Diving or sailing around the Tremiti Islands, known for their lobsters, is equally rewarding. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike and horseback ride along nature trails through the 15,000-hectare beech and oak Umbra Forest.
By car, the A14 comes into Bari from Foggia, Bologna and Taranto. From Naples, take the A16 and then the S16 south. Bari-Palese International Airport is located 10kms west of the city. Ferries operated by Adriatic and Superfast arrive at Bari's Stazione Marittima from Greece (15 hours), Turkey (18 hours), Albania (8 hours) and Croatia (10 hours).
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