The town of Mola di Bari (Italy): a fishermen's village and more (part TWO).

Hello,

in my previous post (you can read HERE I've told you about Mola di Bari and of how a day trip there can be pleasant.

I'd like to talk today about some of the main sights of the town.

Without doubt the Mother Church of San Nicola has an important role here. It's obviouslyis situated in one of those narrow and characteristic alleys of the old town, that leads directly to the sea.
It dates back to the 13th century although by 16th century has undergone extensive restoration in typical Renaissance style with some baroque details.

The rose window is made up of columns and capitals in the Roman marble; also of great interest are the the two portals (central and lateral) embellished by statues supporting the columns of the portals.

The square XX Settembre is the meeting point of the local villagers; it is an extensive pedestrian area surrounded by shops and restaurants renowned for the monumental fountain in its centre.

This last represents one of the most characteristic and evocative architectural elements of the town and it's dedicated to the dead of the Second World War.
It has a circular base of over 20 mt diameter and at the centre of the basin, an octagonal pillar with a fisherman dominating the sea monster, rises. A symbol representing the struggle of the fishermen against the insidie of the sea. Sitting on the rim of the empty basin four lusty "putti" (or little angels) drinking the fountain water.

The square XX Settembre offers a multitude of interesting glimpses. With the old town on your back, on the right of the fountain, Palazzo Roberti-Alberotanza is particularly interesting.
The building was constructed at the end of the 18th century, over the years it was at first schools and associations seat and then seat of the Town library until it was closed due to renovations.
Inside it is possible to admire numerous paintings in the rococo style.

The Santa Maria di Loreto Church is located on the outskirts of the town on the way to the sea but also to the port.
Crossing the street, a splendid waterfront which opens onto the sea offers magnificent views of the marina.

The great fishermen tradition is one of the strengths which locals are particularly proud; You'll find plenty of fishing boats and "gozzi" (a typical feature of boat craft with its own characteristic fishing light.) on the beachfront.

If you want to eat typical regional dishes based on fish, Mola di Bari may be the right place!