Piazza del Ferrarese, Bari
Square in Bari
Piazza del Ferrarese, named after the 17th-century merchant Stefano Fabri from Ferrara, is one of the top attractions in Bari and a lively gateway between the old town (Città Vecchia) and the modern city. It's a space that effortlessly captures the spirit of Bari - where fishermen, pilgrims, students, and travelers mingle beneath the southern sun. The square offers sweeping views of the Old Port and the seafront promenade, Lungomare Imperatore Augusto, and is filled with cafés, restaurants, and vibrant street life from morning until late into the night.
For centuries, Piazza del Ferrarese has been a crossroads of trade and faith. Once a bustling market linked to nearby Piazza Mercantile, it's now one of the must-see places in Bari for its open, welcoming atmosphere and deep connection to local history. Whether you're here for an espresso by the sea or to catch the Feast of Saint Nicholas in May, this spot is a highlight of any walking tour of Bari, where ancient streets lead seamlessly into the modern rhythm of city life.
History and Significance of Piazza del Ferrarese
The square was established in 1612 through the efforts of Stefano Fabri, whose vision helped transform Bari's port area into a thriving commercial hub. Fabri, originally from Ferrara, was instrumental in designing the loggia of Palazzo del Sedile, which once housed the city's Town Hall. Piazza del Ferrarese served as an extension of Piazza Mercantile, creating more space for merchants to handle goods arriving by sea.
Over the centuries, the square became a focal point for trade, gatherings, and public events. During recent renovations, archaeologists uncovered sections of the ancient Appian Way (Via Appia), revealing the deep historical roots beneath its modern paving stones. From its earliest days as a commercial center to its current role as a cultural and social hub, Piazza del Ferrarese has always reflected Bari's vitality and resilience.
Things to See and Do in Piazza del Ferrarese
Start your visit at the square’s edge overlooking the Porto Vecchio, where fishing boats still sway gently in the harbor. The Old Fish Market to the right remains a beloved local institution, while the nearby Via Venezia ramp offers one of the best vantage points for admiring the Adriatic coast. On the left side stands the Murat Hall (Sala Murat), a modern cultural venue hosting exhibitions and events, and behind it, the rounded apse of the medieval Vallisa Church adds a touch of quiet beauty.
At the back of the square rises Palazzo Starita, built over the remnants of an old arsenal. Its graceful facade contrasts with the stone-paved expanse of the square, which often becomes the stage for concerts, performances, and religious celebrations. During the Feast of Saint Nicholas, fireworks light up the bay as the statue of the saint arrives by boat, and the square fills with pilgrims and music. Today, Piazza del Ferrarese remains one of the things to do in Bari for anyone who wants to experience the city's living traditions and seaside charm.
How to Get There
Piazza del Ferrarese sits at the entrance to Bari's old town, connecting the Città Vecchia with the modern Murat district. It's easily accessible on foot from Bari Centrale railway station, about a 20-minute walk down Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. 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 arriving by car, parking is available along the seafront or in nearby lots outside the old town, from which it’s a short walk to the square. 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 Piazza del Ferrarese
- Best time to visit Piazza del Ferrarese: Late afternoon for golden light or evening for a lively atmosphere
- Entrance fee in Euros: Free public space
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours
- Official website: None - public square
- How long to spend: 30-60 minutes
- Accessibility: Fully accessible, level surface with ramps
- Facilities: Nearby cafés, restrooms, and benches
- Photography tip: Capture the square at sunset when the light hits the church walls and harbor
- Guided tours: Commonly included in Bari’s old town tours
- Nearby food options: Excellent seafood restaurants and bars surrounding the square
Is Piazza del Ferrarese worth visiting?
Definitely. Piazza del Ferrarese is one of the top sights in Bari - a vibrant meeting point where sea views, historic architecture, and local culture blend beautifully. Whether you're passing through on your way to the port or stopping to soak up the evening energy, the square is an essential part of the Bari experience.
FAQs for visitng
Nearby Attractions to Piazza del Ferrarese
- Piazza Mercantile - The neighboring historic square with the Palazzo Sedile and Baroque fountain
- Basilica of Saint Nicholas - Bari’s most famous church and pilgrimage site
- Swabian Castle - A 12th-century fortress with medieval and Renaissance elements
- Bari Cathedral - Romanesque church dedicated to Saint Sabinus
- Teatro Margherita - Art Nouveau theatre turned cultural exhibition space on the waterfront
The Piazza del Ferrarese appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bari!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Visiting Piazza del Ferrarese
Nearby Attractions
- Margherita Theatre (0.1) km
Theatre - Piazza Mercantile (0.2) km
Square - Sant’Antonio Abate Fortino (0.2) km
Castle - Bari Civic Museum (0.2) km
Museum - Museo Diocesano, Bari (0.3) km
Museum - Bari Cathedral (0.3) km
Cathedral - Petruzzelli Theatre (0.4) km
Theatre - Basilica San Nicola (0.4) km
Church - Museo Nicolaiano (0.4) km
Museum - Lungomare Promenade (0.4) km
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