Apulia, or Puglia, is located in southern Italy. If you remember your geography lessons, it may resonate with you like the heel of the “boot” of Italy. Tourists flock to this beautiful place for the history and culture, and the wonderful hotels in Puglia are known for their affordable rates, comfortable rooms, and great locations. There are so many places to explore in the region, here are just a few of them.
The Basilica of San Nicola (Saint Nicholas)
The Basilica of San Nicola was founded in 1087 when it received the relics of this saint. They were brought from Myra in Lycia and lie under the altar in the crypt, together with the remains of the Topins, the inheritance of old thieves converted to good faith. This church is one of the four palatine churches in the region.
bari cathedral
If you’re staying at one of the nearby hotels in Puglia, head to the Bari Cathedral, which is dedicated to San Sabino de Canosa. This cathedral was started in the Byzantine style in 1034, but was destroyed in 1156. Later, a new building was created between 1170 and 1178, inspired by the aforementioned San Nicola. Today, only the pavement traces of the original building can be seen.
The church has a simple Romanesque façade with three portals. The upper part is made up of a rose window decorated with fantasy figures, and the interior has two side naves and a nave, divided by 16 columns. The relics of San Sabino and the icon of the Virgin Hodegetria are located here.
Petruzzelli Theater
After La Scala in Milan and the Teatro San Carlo in Naples, the Teatro Petruzzelli is the greatest opera house in Italy. It hosted many famous opera and ballet performances in the 20th century before an arson attack in 1991 nearly destroyed it. After 18 years, the theater was finally reopened in 2009.
swabian castle
This castle, also known as the Norman-Hohenstaufen castle, was built around 1131 and then destroyed in 1156. It was rebuilt and today serves as a gallery for art exhibitions in the city.
Bari Provincial Art Gallery
Another must-see if you’re staying at one of the nearby Puglia hotels is La Pinacoteca Provinciale di Bari (Provincial Picture Gallery of Bari). This is home to some of the most important paintings in the region. The museum was established in 1928 and you will be amazed by the paintings from the 15th century to contemporary art.
the russian church
In the Carrassi district of Bari you will find the Russian Church that was built at the beginning of the 20th century to receive Russian pilgrims. They originally came to the city to visit the church of Saint Nicholas and pay homage to the relics of the saint.