From the origins of the legend of Santa Claus to the magic of the villages: here's why you should visit Bari at Christmas too
Christmas is a magical period, and Italy offers countless destinations capable of fascinating with traditions, lights and dream atmospheres . But there is a city that, more than others, perfectly embodies the Christmas spirit: this city is Bari . Located along the Adriatic coast, Bari combines history, faith and fun in a unique Christmas experience .
Not everyone knows, in fact, that Bari is the city of San Nicola , a legendary figure who inspired the myth of Santa Claus . During the holidays, this special bond is reflected in every corner of the city, from the Basilica which houses the relics of the true saint, to the markets and villages dedicated to Christmas .
Furthermore, Bari is not just the starting point for discovering the Christmas charm: its surroundings, such as Locorotondo , offer fairy-tale views and illumination that leave you speechless. If you are looking for a destination that combines tradition and the magic of Christmas, Bari is the perfect place . Here, then, are three surprising reasons to consider Bari among the Italian cities to absolutely visit during the Christmas .
1) Bari holds the origins of the Christmas legend
Bari is not just a summer destination, it is a symbolic place for Christmas. Here, in fact, are the relics of Saint Nicholas, the saint who, due to his generosity towards the poor and children, inspired the figure of Santa Claus in the world. It is no coincidence, in fact, that even a famous US broadcaster dedicated an article to the link between Santa Claus and Saint Nicholas , claiming that the real Santa Claus is buried in an Italian city (Bari) precisely in the Basilica built in his name. And it is especially during the Christmas period that the Basilica is enriched with an even more solemn and magical atmosphere, thanks to the celebrations and events dedicated to the best-known saint in the world. Walking through the historic illuminated alleys and visiting this sacred place, therefore, means immersing yourself in the roots of the legend of Santa Claus , rediscovering the true spiritual meaning of Christmas .
2) Illuminations, markets and Santa Claus Village
As in many Italian cities, Christmas in Bari is also experienced with the eyes and the heart , thanks to the spectacular lights that decorate the main streets and squares. The city and the main shopping streets are transformed into an enchanting scenography, with light installations that provide a spectacle, without forgetting the famous Christmas markets present along the entire wall of old Bari and which offer a remarkable sight.
Also worth mentioning is the Santa Claus Village Piazza Umberto for some time now , becoming a real center of Christmas entertainment. Here you can find other markets full of local crafts, shows for children, creative workshops and the chance to meet Santa Claus himself! Therefore the ideal place to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas , go shopping and taste the traditional delicacies of Bari.
3) The charm of Christmas in the Apulian villages
Christmas in Bari doesn't stop at the city limits. A few kilometers from the Apulian capital, the villages of Locorotondo and Alberobello offer a unique Christmas experience, among lights and fairy-tale atmospheres. Locorotondo , with its characteristic circular historic center and white houses, lights up Christmas (it is no coincidence that Locorotondo is among the most sought after during the Christmas period) . Walking through its decorated streets means immersing yourself in a place where tradition meets beauty. Another place worth mentioning is Alberobello , famous for its trulli and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . This village transforms into a real fairytale and Christmas village thanks to the typical conical houses that light up with projections and decorations, making the village itself even more enchanting and evocative. Therefore visiting Locorotondo and Alberobello at Christmas means living an experience of tradition, magic and breathtaking landscapes, in unique settings in the world.
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