Bari: Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour With Ticket

Bari, the vibrant coastal city in southern Italy, boasts a rich tapestry of history that unfolds in the remarkable Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour. This guided exploration offers travelers a profound insight into the city’s cultural heritage, from the intricate 16th-century architecture of the Simi Palace to the captivating remnants of a 9th or 10th-century Byzantine church. Along the way, visitors will be mesmerized by the display of prehistoric pottery, Italian-Mycenaean ceramics, and a detailed scale model that transports them back in time. With knowledgeable guides and wheelchair accessibility, this tour promises an immersive experience that leaves one with a deeper appreciation for Bari’s enduring legacy.

Key Points

• This guided tour explores the Simi Palace, an important 16th-century archaeological site, and the remains of a 9th or 10th-century Byzantine church in Bari.

• The tour provides insights into the region’s historical architecture, artifacts, and cultural heritage, including prehistoric pottery and Italian-Mycenaean ceramics.

• The tour is approximately 80 minutes long and available in multiple languages, with wheelchair accessibility and a "reserve now & pay later" option.

• Entrance fees, a knowledgeable tour guide, and the opportunity to view a scale model of the ancient city are included in the starting price of Kč558 per person.

• Advance booking is recommended to secure preferred times and availability, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and free access for children up to 11 years old.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The guided tour of Simi Palace and the adjacent Byzantine church in Bari takes approximately 80 minutes to complete.

Available in Spanish, English, French, and Italian, this activity allows visitors to explore an important archaeological site and discover the remains of a 9th or 10th-century Byzantine church.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and a private group option is available. Participants can expect to learn about the site’s origins dating back to the 16th century and view artifacts including prehistoric pottery and Italian-Mycenaean ceramics.

A scale model of the ancient city is also available for observation during the experience.

Pricing and Booking

Prices for the Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour start from Kč558 per person. Guests can reserve their spot without immediate payment through the "reserve now & pay later" option.

Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, providing flexibility. Children up to 11 years of age can access the tour for free.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors of all abilities. Private group options are also available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

Booking in advance is recommended to secure preferred starting times and availability.

Experience Highlights

Exploring the Simi Palace, visitors uncover an important archaeological site in Bari, dating back to the 16th century.

They’ll discover the remains of a Byzantine church from the 9th or 10th century, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Along the way, guests admire artifacts such as prehistoric pottery and Italian-Mycenaean ceramics, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Complementing the on-site experience, a scale model of the ancient city allows visitors to visualize the site’s former grandeur.

Through the knowledgeable guidance of the tour, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the Simi Palace and its role in Bari’s cultural heritage.

Tour Inclusions

This guided tour of the Simi Palace and adjacent Byzantine church includes entrance fees to both sites. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore these historical treasures with the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide. The tour also includes the following:

Tour Inclusions
Entrance to Simi Palace and church	✓
Guided tour with knowledgeable guide	✓
Tips for participants	✓

Plus, the tour provides a chance to view a scale model of the ancient city, as well as artifacts such as prehistoric pottery and Italian-Mycenaean ceramics. With the tour’s inclusions, visitors can expect a comprehensive and insightful experience exploring the rich history of the Simi Palace and Byzantine church.

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Meeting Point and Preparation

The staircase in front of the entrance to the square serves as the meeting point for this guided tour.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves exploring the Simi Palace and surrounding areas. Plus, it’s recommended to bring an umbrella or rain gear, in case of inclement weather.

The tour is also wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility needs can fully participate in the experience.

The tour starts at various times throughout the day, so it’s important to check availability and book in advance.

Exploring Simi Palace

Upon entering the Simi Palace, visitors are immediately struck by the site’s impressive architectural features. This 16th-century structure boasts a stunning façade, adorned with intricate carvings and columns that showcase the building’s rich heritage.

As the guided tour progresses, guests explore the palace’s well-preserved interior, marveling at the beautifully decorated rooms and the scale model that provides a glimpse into the ancient city’s layout.

The tour also delves into the site’s archaeological significance, as visitors discover the remains of a Byzantine church dating back to the 9th or 10th century, as well as an array of artifacts, including prehistoric pottery and Italian-Mycenaean ceramics.

Discovering the Byzantine Church

Alongside the impressive Simi Palace, the tour guides visitors to the adjacent remains of a Byzantine church dating back to the 9th or 10th century.

Visitors can explore the remnants of this ancient religious structure and learn about its fascinating history.

The tour highlights three key features of the Byzantine church:

1. Architectural Elements: The tour showcases the intricate Byzantine architectural design, including the use of arches, domes, and elaborate decorative motifs.

2. Unearthed Artifacts: Visitors can observe various artifacts discovered during excavations, such as religious iconography, liturgical items, and well-preserved mosaics.

3. Contextual Significance: The guide explains the church’s role within the broader historical and cultural context of Bari’s Byzantine era, providing insights into the region’s religious and political landscape.

Artifacts and Scale Model

Visitors to the Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour are treated to a remarkable display of artifacts unearthed from the site. These include prehistoric pottery and Italian-Mycenaean ceramics that provide a glimpse into the region’s ancient past. One of the highlights is a scale model of the ancient city, allowing guests to visualize the layout and structure of the original settlement. This visual aid complements the tour guide’s engaging explanations, bringing the site’s history to life.

Artifact Type	Description	Significance
Prehistoric Pottery	Earthenware vessels and fragments	Insight into early settlement and daily life
Italian-Mycenaean Ceramics	Decorative pottery from the Mediterranean trade network	Evidence of cultural exchange and interconnectivity
Scale Model	Detailed representation of the ancient city	Aids in understanding the site’s original form and layout

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children Under 5 Years Old?

Yes, the tour is suitable for children under 5 years old. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and children up to 11 years old can access the tour for free, indicating it’s family-friendly for young children.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Pets are not permitted on the tour for safety and comfort reasons. The tour is designed for visitors, and allowing pets could disrupt the experience or pose risks. Guests are asked to leave their pets at home for this guided tour.

Is There an Audio Guide Available in Addition to the Live Guide?

No, there’s no audio guide available for this tour. Visitors will be led by a knowledgeable live guide who’ll provide in-depth explanations about the palace, church, and artifacts throughout the 80-minute experience.

Are There Any Restrooms or Refreshment Facilities at the Site?

There are no public restrooms or refreshment facilities on-site, but visitors can use the facilities at the nearby Simi Palace ticket office before the tour. Snacks and drinks are not provided as part of the tour.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the guided tour of Simi Palace and the Byzantine church. However, they should be mindful of any restrictions or requests from the tour guide to avoid disrupting the experience for other participants.

Recap

Bari’s Simi Palace and Byzantine Church Tour offers an immersive journey into the city’s rich history. Visitors can marvel at the intricate architecture, discover ancient artifacts, and explore a scale model of the ancient city. With knowledgeable guides and wheelchair accessibility, this tour provides a profound appreciation of Bari’s cultural heritage. It’s a must-do experience for those seeking to explore the captivating past of this Italian gem.

You can check if your dates are available here: