Sannicandro di Bari

In Sannicandro di Bari, it's possible to admire one of the most beautiful castles in Apulia. Once a fortress with eight fortification towers, while today six remain, a shining example of Norman-Swabian architecture, with two portals that preserve the holes through which the chains of the drawbridge passed and the coat of arms of the Grimaldi princes. Ancient churches, such as those of the Holy Spirit and the Crucifix, and the Art Nouveau details that enrich some of the noble palaces make for a pleasant stroll through the old town centre, whose origins date back to the 8th century, when the monastic community of San Basilio erected the church of Sannicandro. A flourishing agricultural centre, it is famous for the production of figs, quinces and extra virgin olive oil but, above all, for the sweet olive to which a popular festival is dedicated every year.