Bari and the Assassina Spaghetti
Discover Bari, its history, and the Assassina spaghetti, an iconic dish of Barese cuisine.
Bari is one of the most fascinating cities in southern Italy. The capital of Puglia, it overlooks the Adriatic Sea and combines tradition and modernity in a unique balance. The city offers a mix of history, culture, and gastronomy that makes it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting the region.
The historic center of Bari, known as Bari Vecchia, is a maze of narrow streets, stone arches, and picturesque views. Walking through its alleys feels like stepping back in time. Here you can find the Basilica of San Nicola, an important pilgrimage site, and the imposing Norman-Swabian Castle overlooking the sea. Every corner of Bari Vecchia tells stories of a rich and fascinating past, where time seems to have stopped.
Despite its history, Bari is not just an open-air museum. Its waterfront is among the most beautiful in Italy, perfect for a sunset stroll. The view of the sea is breathtaking and offers a romantic and relaxing atmosphere. The city also hosts historic theaters, such as the Petruzzelli, and a vibrant cultural scene. The Murat district, with its tree-lined avenues and elegant shops, represents the modern and commercial part of the city, where you can find fashion boutiques and cozy cafes.
Barese cuisine is an experience not to be missed. From focaccia barese, orecchiette with turnip tops, to fried panzerotti, each dish tells a story made of simple and genuine flavors. But among all the specialties, one stands out for its originality and intensity of taste: the spaghetti all’assassina.
Spaghetti all’assassina is a typical dish from Bari, born right in the city in the 1960s. Its peculiarity lies in the cooking method: the spaghetti is cooked directly in the pan with spicy sauce, without prior boiling. The result is a crunchy pasta, charred in some spots, with a strong and unmistakable flavor. This dish is a true symbol of Barese cuisine.
The original recipe calls for just a few ingredients: spaghetti, tomato puree, chili pepper, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil. But it is the technique that makes the difference. The pasta is “burned” in the pan, hence the name "assassina," because the strong and spicy taste can surprise even the most daring palates. Every forkful is an explosion of flavors that tells the passion of the Barese for their cuisine.
In Bari, spaghetti all’assassina can be enjoyed in several famous places, known for their adherence to the traditional recipe and the quality of the ingredients. Among the most renowned are Giampà, a historic venue in the heart of the city, famous for its authentic preparation of the assassina. Le 2 Aquile is a cozy restaurant with typical Barese cuisine, while Al Sorso Preferito is highly appreciated for its crunchy and spicy version of the dish. These restaurants represent a reference point for those who want to try the assassina as tradition dictates.
The Mediterranean climate makes Bari an ideal destination all year round. Spring and early autumn are perfect for visiting the city, with mild temperatures and less crowding compared to summer. During these periods, you can fully enjoy the artistic and natural beauties without the hustle and bustle of tourists.
Bari is easily reachable by plane, train, and car. The international airport Karol Wojtyla is well connected to major Italian and European cities. The central train station, located in the city center, is an important hub of the railway network in southern Italy. This makes the city accessible to everyone, allowing you to discover its wonders with ease.
