Bari

The remains of Saint Nicholas were brought from Myra in Asia Minor to Bari in southern Italy by a group of merchants. This event marked the start of Bari becoming an important religious site in Europe, as it now housed the relics of a significant Christian saint. The relics were subsequently placed in the Basilica di San Nicola, which became a pilgrimage site.

On Christmas Day in 1851, the city of Bari was struck by a significant earthquake. Although the magnitude of the earthquake is unknown, it caused considerable damage to the city and surrounding areas. The event led to the rebuilding and reconstruction efforts, influencing the urban landscape of Bari. Historical records note the resilience of the Baresi people during this rebuilding phase.

During World War II, the port of Bari was subject to an air raid by the German Luftwaffe. The attack resulted in the sinking of several Allied ships and the release of mustard gas from one of the bombed ships, causing numerous casualties. This incident, kept secret for many years, was one of the war's worst chemical warfare episodes due to the accidental release of the toxic gas.

The ship Vlora arrived in Bari, carrying thousands of Albanian refugees fleeing economic hardship. This event marked a significant moment in immigration history, as the city managed the influx of refugees and provided support in difficult circumstances. It highlighted issues of migration and the humanitarian response needed in such crises, with Bari playing a central role.

Pope John Paul II visited Bari as part of his pastoral journey to Italy. During his visit, he highlighted the city's ecumenical significance due to its historical ties to the Eastern Orthodox Church. The Pope emphasized the importance of unity among Christian churches and paid homage to the relics of Saint Nicholas, an important figure revered by both Catholic and Orthodox Christians.

The Mass Transit Railway system in Bari was inaugurated, enhancing public transportation in the city. This project was crucial in modernizing urban infrastructure, catering to the needs of a growing population, and reducing traffic congestion. The railway's design and implementation illustrate Bari's commitment to sustainable and efficient urban planning.

Bari hosted the International Eucharistic Congress, an event that gathered Catholics from around the world to celebrate and discuss the sacrament of the Eucharist. This congress aimed to strengthen the faith and commitment of Catholics while fostering dialogue among believers globally. The choice of Bari was significant because of its enduring role as a bridge between different Christian traditions.

Bari was the location for the G7 Interior Ministers' Meeting, where discussions focused on security and international collaborations on immigration and border control. The event marked Bari as a center for international diplomacy and political discussion, reflecting its strategic importance in regional and global contexts. Leaders from various countries attended this pivotal gathering.

Bari hosted a significant meeting of bishops from countries around the Mediterranean Sea, initiated by Pope Francis. The meeting, themed 'Mediterranean Frontier of Peace', addressed issues of peace, migration, and dialogue in the region. It emphasized Bari's historic role as a meeting point between cultures and faiths and its importance in fostering reconciliation and understanding.

The Apulian Aqueduct, one of the greatest civil engineering works in Italy, was inaugurated in Bari. Serving as a vital infrastructure project, it provides water from the Sele River to Puglia region. The aqueduct is notable for its historical and technical significance, having transformed the agricultural and urban landscape of Puglia, a region previously characterized by water scarcity.