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6th December / 7th to 9th May
The city of Bari has been connected to the cults of Saint Nicholas since time began and are seen as the most powerful intercessors of God.
Every year on the occasion of the “doppia” double patronal celebration, thousands of worshippers from all over the world gather in Bari. The most celebrated day being the 6th December, the day on which Saint Nicholas died. Then, from 7th to 9th May the Translation of the Saint is devotedly remembered and commemorated with a historic procession.
Throughout May, numerous civil and religious events succeed one another in the city in the name of the Patron Saint. The locals appear in costumes and dancers and jugglers fill the streets, but the most undisputed protagonist is the Caravella. A lifelike reproduction representing the ships which revisit the 62 sailors from Bari who in 1087 stole the skeletons from Saint Myra (now known as Turkey) taking them to the chief town of Puglia where the Basilica of Saint Nicholas was built to venerate its cult.
Fun packed days, seeing thousands of visitors lining the streets and crowding the promenade. Tourists worldwide who choose Bari to experience this magnificent celebration, absorbing the atmosphere of the spectacular illuminations which light up the streets of Ancient Bari every year. It’s the only way to take in the essence of this beautiful place.
Patronal Celebrations throughout Puglia represent the fascinating world of folklore, where traditions and customs have remained the same throughout time. They are accompanied by typical food and wines with their classic aromas and tastes, summing up the best of a culture bursting with traditions.
PUGLIA EXPLORATION offers this unique experience to relive these events and localities, whether it be for just a weekend or as a complete package holiday of your dreams to discover this marvellous unspoilt land.
