Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari: a journey through history, spirituality and wonder

Basilica of Saint Nicholas: History and Devotion

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari is a masterpiece of Apulian Romanesque architecture, built between 1087 and 1197. Its construction is closely tied to the arrival of Saint Nicholas’ relics, which were taken by sixty-two sailors from Bari from Myra, in Lycia (modern-day Turkey), and brought to Bari on May 9, 1087. To house these sacred relics, Abbot Elia, with the local people's support, initiated the basilica construction on the site of the Corte del Catapano, the palace of the Byzantine governor.

Work began that same year, and by 1089, the crypt was ready to be consecrated by Pope Urban II, who placed the saint’s relics beneath the high altar. The basilica soon became a significant place of worship for both Catholic and Orthodox believers, as well as a symbol of ecumenical unity.

Its imposing structure, featuring a stark facade and two massive towers, reflects the Norman influence of the time. Inside, the presence of the oldest ciborium in the region and the episcopal throne of Abbot Elia showcase the site's rich artistic and historical heritage. Today, the Basilica of Saint Nicholas remains a major pilgrimage destination for devotees worldwide and an architectural gem at the heart of Bari.

Helpful Information for Visiting the Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari

Opening Hours

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is open to visitors during the following hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
• Sunday: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Mass Schedule

• Weekdays: 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 6:30 PM
• Holidays and Sundays: 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM (suspended from July to September), 6:30 PM, 8:30 PM

Reservations
Enhance your visit by joining a guided tour of the basilica and crypt. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially for large groups (minimum of 20 participants).

Access to the Basilica
The main entrance to the Basilica of Saint Nicholas is located at Largo Abate Elia, 13, in Bari’s historic center.

• By Car: remember that the area may have traffic restrictions. It’s best to park in the surrounding areas and walk to the basilica.
• By Public Transport: the closest bus stops are just a short walk away, served by multiple urban bus lines.

How to Get to the Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is located at Largo Abate Elia 13, in the heart of Bari’s historic center. Here’s how you can reach it:

On Foot
You can walk to the basilica from Bari Centrale Train Station in about 20 minutes. Follow Corso Vittorio Emanuele II to Piazza del Ferrarese, enter the Old Town and follow the signs to the basilica.

By Bus
From the train station, take AMTAB Line 50 towards Bari - Corso Antonio De Tullio 40 (Porto Di Bari) R. The closest stop, De Tullio (Porto), is about a 2-minute walk from the basilica.

By Car
If you're driving, keep in mind that the basilica is located in a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL). You can park at SABA Porto Parking on Corso Vittorio Veneto 5, open 24/7, and walk about 10 minutes to the basilica.

By Taxi
A taxi is a fast and convenient way to reach the basilica from the train station or anywhere else in the city.

Before your visit, check public transportation schedules and any potential traffic restrictions, especially during holidays or special events.