Our last day in Puglia started with an extended breakfast in Bari. Since our flight to Sicily was in the evening we headed north up the coast to Trani, a 45 minute drive.
The entire coastline from Bari north to Barletta is a sea of building cranes. It appears they are constructing multi dwelling 7 – 8 story residences. There is no real gap between the towns on the coast so it’s one continuous community.
This image is at odds with official statistics. While towns experience seasonal tourism boosts and localized commercial investments, permanent residency numbers continue to shrink as younger generations move away for work. Overall the population is aging and birth rates are falling.
Trani is still a very active fishing village with a busy harbour. And, of course, tourists.
Construction of the Romanesque Cathedral of Trani started in 1099 (on top of church ruins dating back to the fifth century) and took nearly 200 years to complete. It has a unique location, directly adjacent to the seawall.
Just a few hundred metres away is the 13th century fort. Neither building was open so no pictures to share.
After a walk on the breakwater and lunch overlooking the harbour it was time to pack up and head to the airport.
The Bari airport was surprisingly busy but the security lines moved very quickly (hilariously we had pre paid to use the express line which was completely empty yet the time taken to get through was the same as everyone else).
Ryanair has a unique colour scheme.
The flight was delayed 30 minutes which meant arriving in Catania in the dark which made the drive to our hotel (35 minutes into the hills) on narrow winding roads all the more challenging. Doug handled it admirably.
Tomorrow we have a guided hike on Mount Etna which will be interesting given its recent eruptions. Another “fingers crossed” moment.
