Terra di Bari
Terra di Bari refers to a historical and geographical region located in Apulia (Puglia), southern Italy. It generally encompasses the area around the city of Bari, extending north towards Barletta and south towards Monopoli.
Historically, Terra di Bari was an important administrative and territorial unit, particularly during the medieval period under Norman, Hohenstaufen, and Angevin rule. Its boundaries fluctuated over time, but the region consistently served as a significant agricultural and commercial center. The name "Terra di Bari" (Land of Bari) signifies the dominance and importance of the city of Bari within the broader surrounding territory.
The area is characterized by a flat landscape, fertile soil conducive to agriculture (especially olive groves and vineyards), and a coastline along the Adriatic Sea. The economy of Terra di Bari has historically been based on agriculture and trade, with Bari serving as a major port city.
Today, the term "Terra di Bari" is less commonly used in official administrative contexts, but it remains a recognized geographical and cultural designation within Apulia. The modern Metropolitan City of Bari roughly corresponds to a significant portion of the historical Terra di Bari, though the boundaries are not identical. The term is often used in discussions of local history, traditions, and agricultural products of the region.