Adventure

The Journey Home 2023 — Bari

Halfway through our trip found us in Bari. We took the train from Taranto, about 90 minutes and very reasonable at about 9 Euros per person. The train was spotless inside and out and very comfortable. We could have walked from the train to our B & B, but it’s good that we did not as we would have gotten lost in the old city. Even with the taxi dropping us off it took some time to find our place. It is a real twisty old town filled with alleys. Eventually, we would take the sea walk to get back to the B & B, but by the third day we were able to find our way around!

We had a nice little store across the street, however the locals were pretty loud at night

Once we got the lay of the land, Bari was much more enjoyable than we expected. It was only a short walk to an array of fine restaurants and to via Sparano, which I liken to 5th Ave in NYC, but even better as it is pedestrians only for about a mile. There is also an other pedestrian street adjacent to via Sparano.

Via Sparano is full of high end shops, gelato and pastries. You won’t go hungry in Bari that is for certain. By the way, I went to grammar school with my good friend Antonia Sparano.

Of course, like most Italian cities and towns there is an old fort. The Fort of Sant’Antonio or the Swabian Fort was only about a 15 minute walk from us.

It’s a self tour with an interesting state of the art presentation that displays the history of Bari. There was also a free archeology museum just minutes away. We did go into the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, but ran out of time to visit that museum.

Bari is a great jumping off point to many many great places. My maternal grandparents were born in Toritto about 30 minutes by car and train. That will be my next post. We also went to Matera a really must see place if you are in Puglia or Basilicata.

Short Video

Of course all the food in Bari was excellent, however, if you find yourself there, be sure to check out L’Osteria del Borgo Antico Piazza Mercantile 15. borgoantico.bari@gmail.com. Be sure to make a reservation, we missed out on a second meal because we did not.

Images from the Fort

Bari Street Views

For the experience of a lifetime ItalyRooting

Buying a home. Contact Sabrina Franco

Bari at night

Saint Nick's

Italian Roots and Genealogy is sponsored by “Your Dolce Vita” and Dawn Mattera connecting people to their purpose in life and continuing their legacy. Contact Dawn at www.yourdolcevita.com

Exploring Toarmina

April 26, 2025 No Comments

In this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Mimma Scinardo from Taormina, Sicily, exploring the rich history, culture, and culinary delights of the region. Mimma shares insights on the best times to visit, the unique attractions of Taormina, and the significance of Sicilian identity. She also discusses her journey in running a bed and breakfast and her passion for helping visitors connect with their roots in Sicily. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook

Buona Pasqua From Italian Genealogy

April 20, 2025 No Comments

Buona Pasqua from Italian Genealogy. Hard to believe that we are in our seventh year. This year has been great. Pick up a copy of “Farmers and Nobles” Available here or on Amazon. Thank you and have a Happy Easter! Click here to Join Italian Genealogy on Facebook

From Stromboli to America: A Journey of Heritage

April 20, 2025 No Comments

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Charlie and Steve Bongiorno about their Italian roots and family history. They share stories of their ancestors’ immigration to the United States, cultural traditions, language, and personal experiences in Stromboli. The discussion highlights the transformation of Stromboli from a primitive island to a celebrity destination, reflecting on the changes over generations. In this engaging conversation, the speakers share their experiences of living in Italy, exploring their cultural roots, and

Jazz and Italian Heritage

April 18, 2025 No Comments

In this engaging conversation, jazz singer Vanessa Racci shares her journey of exploring her Italian heritage and how it intertwines with her passion for jazz music. From her family’s roots in Puglia to her experiences growing up in New York, Vanessa reflects on the rich history of Italian Americans in jazz and the importance of preserving this cultural legacy. She discusses her musical projects that aim to revive Italian classics through jazz arrangements and highlights

Generational Perspectives on Being Italian-American

April 15, 2025 No Comments

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino engages with Dr. Gilda Rorro and Dr. Mary Rorro, a mother-daughter duo, to explore their Italian heritage and the significance of family roots. They share personal stories of immigration, the importance of reconnecting with their Italian roots, and the generational differences in experiencing Italian identity. The discussion also highlights the role of food in Italian culture, the challenges of preserving heritage for future generations, and the contributions of Italians to

Italian Wine Classes – FAST

April 14, 2025 No Comments

Join us on a journey to explore the allure of sparkling wine as we embark on a taste test experience like no other! From the elegance of Champagne to the charm of Prosecco, we’ll delve into the world of sparkling varieties and uncover the perfect food and wine pairing to elevate your next celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just looking to cheers to bubbly, this video is for you. Get ready to discover