Postcards from Barletta 🖼⛪️🥘

Postcards from Barletta

Distant enough from other big cities in the region of Apulia and in a strategic position along the Adriatic coast to develop its own identity as a trading and military spot, Barletta is one of these cities with a fascinating and rich history. A critical point towards the East Mediterranean during the Middle Ages for the crusades and trading relationships along the East-West spice route, Barletta displays still today many features of its glorious past. One of the most visible is a colossal bronze statue of a Roman emperor of the V century AD. There are very few surviving statues of this size, three times life size, and period so the city can be really proud of showcasing this impressive sculpture.

In the Old Town there are plenty of medieval constructions to witness the importance of Barletta during this period. most notably a large fortress progressively enlarged over various centuries from an initial Norman construction of the 10th century. The castle has been used militarily until the Second World War as an impregnable defence building. Many churches constellate the area around the castle and demonstrate the devotion and economic power of the population during medieval times.

Apulia has always been a fertile ground for painters and sculptors of all times, who have been commissioned artworks and the construction of buildings to celebrate the natural beauty and the colours of this rich land. One particular mention is due to the art of Giuseppe De Nittis, who was born in Barletta and then moved to Paris to become an inspired impressionist painter. His artistry was originally founded on the representation of rural landscapes, also from his native region. He then moved on to portray fashionable society in Paris and London and to establish his own recognisable style. A large collection of his artworks was donated by his wife to his native city of Barletta and is now exhibited in a restored family palace in the Old Town.

Barletta’s position on the coastline and its vibrant fishing industry translates also into a rich food culture around fresh seafood and its culinary preparations. Most restaurants in Barletta have an interesting seafood menu to choose from and one of my favourites is surely Veleno (Venom), which offers a sophisticated approach to preparing and presenting seafood dishes.