Margherita Theatre, Bari

Theatre in Bari

Teatro Margherita
Teatro Margherita
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Augusto Aulenta

Rising gracefully above the waters of Bari's old port, the Margherita Theatre is one of the top sights in Bari for lovers of architecture, history, and modern art. With its elegant Liberty-style design and dramatic seaside setting, the theatre is both a relic of early 20th-century glamour and a symbol of Bari's cultural renewal. First opened in 1914 and reborn in 2018 after decades of restoration, it now hosts exhibitions, performances, and international events, seamlessly blending the city's theatrical past with its creative present.

Once completely surrounded by the Adriatic Sea and accessible only by a pier, the theatre was an audacious architectural statement for its time. Today, it continues to draw locals and visitors alike, not just for its exhibitions, but also for its striking views across the harbor and its role in the Bari International Film Festival (Bif&st). This spot is often visited on walking tours of Bari, serving as a link between the city's Belle Époque charm and its vibrant modern identity.

History and Significance of Margherita Theatre

The story of the Margherita Theatre is one of ambition, tragedy, and rebirth. Its origins date back to 1910, when the Varietà Margherita - a wooden theatre built on the sea - was inaugurated but tragically burned down just a year later. Determined to rebuild, the Petruzzelli family commissioned engineers Luigi Santarella and Francesco De Giglio to design a more permanent structure in the Liberty style. Constructed on reinforced concrete pillars driven into the seabed, the new theatre - inaugurated on August 22, 1914 - was a marvel of its time and quickly became a social and cultural hub for Bari's elite.

The theatre closed in 1980 and remained dormant for decades as restoration plans stalled. Its rebirth finally came in December 2018, when it reopened as a contemporary art museum. The Margherita now serves as a centerpiece for Bari’s cultural life, hosting art installations, photography exhibits, and performances while preserving its historic elegance. Its transformation mirrors the city’s own journey from maritime trading port to dynamic regional capital.

Things to See and Do in Margherita Theatre

Visitors can admire the theatre’s stunning architecture - from its pastel-orange façade to the ornate interior detailing that recalls Italy’s early modernist period. The glass windows offer spectacular views of the Adriatic, especially at sunset when the light dances across the sea. Inside, rotating exhibitions showcase works by local and international contemporary artists, offering a creative dialogue between the old and the new.

The theatre's proximity to Bari's waterfront promenade makes it a perfect stop during a leisurely walk along the harbor. Don't miss the evening illumination that transforms the building into a glowing beacon reflected in the water. Whether you're here for a festival event, an exhibition, or simply to soak in the atmosphere, the Margherita Theatre is one of the best places to visit in Bari to experience the city's cultural renaissance.

How to Get There

The Margherita Theatre is located along Lungomare Imperatore Augusto, near the old port and Piazza del Ferrarese, making it easily accessible on foot from Bari Vecchia and the seafront. It's about a 15-20 minute walk from Bari Centrale railway station. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.
If you’re driving, parking is available in nearby lots around the Murat district and along the seafront promenade. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visitng Margherita Theatre

  • Best time to visit Margherita Theatre: Late afternoon to enjoy sunset light on the sea
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Varies by exhibition (usually around €5-10)
  • Opening hours: Typically 10 AM-8 PM; closed Mondays
  • Official website: teatro.margherita.bari.it
  • How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible, with ramps and lifts
  • Facilities: Café, restrooms, and event spaces on-site
  • Photography tip: Capture reflections of the theatre in the water from the nearby promenade
  • Guided tours: Available for special exhibitions and architectural tours
  • Nearby food options: Seafront restaurants and bars in Piazza del Ferrarese and along Via Venezia

Is Margherita Theatre worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely. The Margherita Theatre is one of the must-see places in Bari, combining history, architecture, and contemporary creativity in a single stunning location. Whether you're interested in its artistic exhibitions, its photogenic setting, or its fascinating backstory, it's a destination that perfectly embodies Bari's evolving spirit.

FAQs for visitng

Yes, it hosts art events, performances, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Yes, visitors can enter to see exhibitions or explore the interior during opening hours.
Yes, but restrictions may apply during exhibitions.
Yes, exhibitions often include interactive and visual displays suitable for all ages.
Yes, there is a café overlooking the sea, perfect for a break during your visit.

Nearby Attractions to Margherita Theatre

The Margherita Theatre appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bari!

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Moira & Andy

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Visiting Margherita Theatre

Address: Teatro Margherita Piazza IV Novembre 70122 Bari BA Italy
Bari: 1 km
Official Website

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