The Arrival of St. Nicholas Painting
The arrival of the painting of St. Nicholas at Molo Sant'Antonio is an event that unites the sacred and the profane, celebrating Bari's tradition with a maritime procession and culinary festivities.
Bari's patronal festival hits its peak with the San Nicola feast. On May 7, the main historical parade starts at 8:30 PM. It begins in Piazza Federico II di Svevia and ends in Piazza San Nicola, in the old town's heart.
Before the parade, there's a traditional sea procession of the Saint's painting. It starts from San Giorgio Bay. The painting of Saint Nicholas of Myra is placed on the Caravella. It's accompanied by sea, recalling the relics' arrival in the city.
The painting is kept on the first floor of the Nicolaiano Museum. It's carried in the procession instead of the relics, which stay in the Basilica's crypt, preserved in their shrine.
According to popular tradition, the painting, by 17th-century painter Simplicius, seems to have a gaze that changes depending on who's looking.
For the festival, Slowtravels offers a tour focused on the Saint and Bari's connection to his history. The itinerary starts at the Nicolaiano Museum, showcasing new materials, and ends at the Basilica of San Nicola, retracing traditions and stories linked to the feast.
The free walking tour lasts about two hours. It takes place on May 5 at 6 PM and on May 8 and 9 at 5:30 PM. To really get the event's vibe, you need to join this tour. Otherwise, you might feel like you're just wandering through a market, missing what truly matters.
To stay updated on the Sagra di San Nicola program and book a spot on the free tours (or those with a voluntary contribution) organized by Slowtravels, visit the official website www.slowtravels.it. There, you'll always find confirmed dates, times, and easy signup instructions.
After the painting arrives at the pier, the evening of May 7 continues with its transfer to land. Then there's a procession on foot to the historic center. The painting is accompanied by a parade with flag bearers, musicians, and performers. It reaches Piazza San Nicola, where the evening Historical Parade takes place. This is a medieval reenactment with period costumes, torches, and banners. It winds through the streets of Bari Vecchia, arriving in the square around 10-11 PM. People follow closely, amidst prayers, chats, and a shared sense of anticipation.
Gastronomy takes the stage at this point, when the solemn part gives way to street conviviality. In the alleys and around the basilica, stalls and makeshift fry shops appear. You'll find sgagliozze (fried polenta squares, hot and salty), popizze (fried dough balls), panzerotti, and Bari-style focaccia. This celebration is also called the "May Festival" for a reason. It's not just about devotion, but also eating together, having a beer, and enjoying the evening outdoors, with a natural Bari flair.
