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Bari - The Basilica of Saint Nicholas

Bari is the region capital of Puglia located in a strategic position thanks to its port, airport and the international trade fair Fiera del Levante.

One of the main destinations for religious tourists coming from all over Europe is the Basilica of Saint Nicholas. The Basilica represents an example of Puglia’s Romanesque architecture, which flourished between the end of the 11th century and the early years of the 13th century.

It was founded in the 11th century to house the relics of Saint Nicholas which had been taken form a temple in Myra. The massive structure is flanked by two towers: Torre del Catapano and Torre delle Milizie and a central door, Portale dei Leoni. In the interior there is a gilded wooden ceiling that overlooks different paintings. Two wide staircases lead down to the crypt where you can also find the Cattedra di Elia and the ciborium. The presence of an Orthodox chapel in the crypt indicates the coexistence of two religions.