Lungomare Araldo di Crollalanza: Bari's Seaside Promenade

The Lungomare Araldo di Crollalanza is Bari's monumental seafront promenade, a popular public space for residents and tourists alike. This expansive walkway connects the historic Bari Vecchia quarter with the modern parts of the metropolis, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. It is a significant section of Bari's entire waterfront, which stretches over 15 kilometers, making it one of the longest coastal promenades in Italy.

History and Construction

The promenade's origins are part of an ambitious urban plan from the early 20th century to modernize Bari's coastline and reinforce its identity as a key maritime city, a 'Gateway to the East'. Construction gained momentum through the 1920s and 1930s, and this section was officially inaugurated in 1927. It became a symbol of Bari's importance during the Fascist era, reflecting a broader political agenda of public works.

The promenade was officially named in the 1980s after Araldo di Crollalanza, who served as Bari's Podestà (mayor) and later as the Minister of Public Works. He was a crucial figure in its development and is also credited with preventing the proposed demolition of Bari Vecchia (the old city) in 1930, ensuring the preservation of the historic center. The promenade underwent a major restoration in the 1990s.

Architecture and Design

The Lungomare Araldo di Crollalanza was designed in the Italian Art Nouveau style, also known as Liberty style, with elements of Rationalist architecture. Architect Saverio Dioguardi, a prominent figure in the region, was involved in the design of monumental buildings along the seafront, pioneering the use of materials like iron and reinforced concrete.

A distinguishing feature during its initial construction was the set of 197 iconic cast iron lampposts, locally called "candelabri." These original fixtures, fabricated by the firm "Officina Fonderia F. Corazza," were a central part of the promenade's visual identity until they were replaced with simpler models in 1962.

The Promenade Today

Today, the Lungomare is a vibrant hub of activity. It is a favored spot for the traditional Italian evening stroll, or 'passeggiata,' where people enjoy the sea breeze. The promenade features dedicated paths for jogging and cycling, and its benches offer places to admire the Liberty-style buildings and watch cruise ships and ferries in the port. It is also a popular area for street food and local eateries offering Puglian flavors.

An Unintended Barrier

Despite being built to enhance Bari's connection to the sea, the promenade's construction inadvertently created an "architectural barrier" between the city and the water. Before its existence, the coastline featured simple wooden bathing establishments on stilts, which allowed residents direct access for swimming. The monumental Lungomare changed this relationship, making direct access to the sea less common than it was in earlier times.