Les meilleurs hôtels à Bari

Santa Claus isn't normally associated with southern Italy and the Mediterranean, but thanks to some local sailors who stole his bones from Asia Minor, Bari turns out to be the final resting place of old Saint Nicholas. Centrally situated on the Adriatic Sea, Bari is also the capital and commercial center of the Puglia (or Apulia) Region, which forms the heel of Italy's boot. Called "Milan of the South," Bari is a modern business and transport hub. The city of 350,000 people does brisk trade with East Mediterranean and African countries, while serving as a ferry stop for tourists on their way to or from Greece. Bari's universities accommodate around 80,000 students, many of them from other countries. Bari is divided into a logical modern city, built during the early 19th century, and a medieval old town. The old town was designed like a labyrinthe, intended to shield residents from ocean winds, and to confuse invaders who coveted Bari as a strategic port. Prominent local landmarks include the Basilica of St. Nicola (Old Nick being Bari's patron saint), a cathedral, and a Norman-Swebian Castle. Greek influence is said to be reflected in the lavish hospitality of Bari folk. That trait combined with Bari's cosmopolitan culture and passion for sports makes the city a natural host for the XIII Mediterranean Games.