The Ancient Walls of Bari: A Journey Through Time in Southern Italy 🌊🇮🇹

#mediterranean If you’re wandering through Bari, don’t miss the chance to get lost in the magical streets of Bari Vecchia, the city’s historic old town, encircled by parts of the ancient city walls that once protected it from invaders coming from the sea. It’s the beating heart of the Apulian capital — a mix of medieval charm, local life, and seaside views. 📜 A Glimpse into History The fortified walls of Bari were built during the Byzantine and Norman eras, and later reinforced under Frederick II and Spanish rule. These walls served as protection against Ottoman threats and pirate raids, hugging the Adriatic Sea and wrapping around a labyrinth of stone alleys and whitewashed houses. Today, you can still walk along parts of the ancient walls, particularly along Via Venezia, where the sea breeze hits your face as you overlook the blue waters from what feels like a natural balcony into the Adriatic. 🚶 What to See & Do Walk the walls: Head to Via Venezia, the most iconic stretch, where you can stroll above the walls between Fortino di Sant’Antonio and Castello Normanno-Svevo. It’s perfect for golden hour or a late-night walk under the stars. Explore Bari Vecchia: Step into narrow cobbled alleys where women still make orecchiette pasta by hand right outside their doors. Visit the Basilica di San Nicola, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and an important pilgrimage site. Wander past the Cattedrale di San Sabino and soak in the contrast between the churches’ grandeur and the simplicity of everyday life around them. Chill in Piazza Mercantile and Piazza del Ferrarese, two lively squares where locals gather for spritzes, gelato, or people-watching. Visit Castello Normanno-Svevo, a Norman fortress that anchors the city’s defensive structure and stands just at the edge of the old city. 🍝 Where to Eat Nearby Don’t leave Bari Vecchia without tasting: Panzerotti (try the legendary ones from Panificio Fiore) Handmade orecchiette con le cime di rapa Fresh seafood straight from the port And of course, a gelato or espresso on a sunny terrace 🕰️ When to Visit The old town comes alive in the evening, with locals strolling and kids playing in the alleys. But morning visits give you a peaceful, almost cinematic feel as the sun lights up the limestone walls. ⸻ 💸 Budget Tips 💰 Entry to Bari Vecchia and walking the city walls is completely free. 🏰 The Castello costs around €9 for entry. 🍕 Grab a meal or snack for under €10–15 in most local spots. 📷 It’s a photographer’s dream — no filter needed! 🚇 How to Get There From Bari Centrale station, it’s just a 15-minute walk straight down Via Sparano into Piazza del Ferrarese, the gateway to Bari Vecchia. It’s well connected if you’re coming from other cities in Puglia by train. 🌟 Final Thoughts Bari Vecchia and its ancient walls are more than just relics of a fortified past — they’re a living story. A place where history meets daily life, where children