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Church · Bari, Apúlia
Basilica di San Nicola
Romanesque basilica from the 11th century, in the heart of Bari Vecchia, built to house the relics of Saint Nicholas, brought from the city of Myra (now in Turkey) in 1087. It is a destination for Catholic and Orthodox pilgrims.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Basilica di San Nicola
The Basilica di San Nicola is the symbol of Bari. It was begun in 1087 to receive the relics of Saint Nicholas, bishop of Myra in Lycia, brought to Bari by 62 sailors from the city. In 1089 Pope Urban II deposited the relics in the crypt, and the construction was completed toward the end of the 12th century.
The building is one of the main examples of Apulian Romanesque: a sober light-stone façade, sculpted portals and two side towers. Inside, with three naves, the Baroque decorations were removed in 20th-century restorations to restore a medieval appearance. Next to the apse is the mausoleum of Bona Sforza, Queen of Poland and Duchess of Bari, who died in 1557.
The crypt, beneath the altar, houses the saint's tomb and is the most visited point. The basilica is entrusted to Dominican friars and plays a strong role in dialogue between Christian churches: it is common to see groups of Orthodox pilgrims, especially from Eastern Europe, praying there.
In May, Bari celebrates the arrival of the relics with the Festa di San Nicola, featuring a historic procession and a maritime procession. On 6 December, the saint's day, there are also celebrations.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 40 minutes to 1 hour, including the crypt.
Best time
In the morning, before the tour groups, or late in the afternoon. During Masses visitor circulation is limited; check the times before you go. In May, during the saint's festival, the area gets very crowded.
How to get there
It's in Bari Vecchia, about 1.5 km from Bari Centrale station, roughly a 20-minute walk along Via Sparano and Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Cars from outside do not enter the old town.
Tip
It is an active church: enter with shoulders and knees covered and keep quiet in the crypt. Entrance is free. The Cattedrale di San Sabino is about 300 metres away, and you can see both on the same walk.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basilica di San Nicola
Why is Saint Nicholas buried in Bari?
Because the saint's relics — he was the bishop of Myra in Lycia — were brought to Bari by sailors from the city in 1087. The basilica was built to receive them, and they have been in the crypt since 1089.
Do you have to pay to enter the basilica?
Entrance to the basilica is free. Check the visiting hours before you go, as they change on feast days and during services.
What clothing is appropriate to enter?
Shoulders and knees covered. On hot days, carry a scarf or a lightweight shirt in your bag.
When is the feast of Saint Nicholas celebrated?
The celebration of the arrival of the relics takes place in May, with a historical procession and a sea procession. The saint's day, December 6, is also celebrated at the basilica.