Bitetto
Welcome to Bitetto: a city rich in history and culture
Hello friends, today I will talk to you about Bitetto, a city located in the inland area of Bari, just 17 kilometers from the city of Bari. With its over 11,000 inhabitants, Bitetto was granted the title of city in 2007 by the President of the Republic, Giorgio Napolitano. One of the main attractions of the city is the Church of San Michele Arcangelo, a former cathedral, in Apulian Romanesque style.
The physical geography of Bitetto
The territory of Bitetto is predominantly flat, although it presents an altimetric range of 97 meters. The city is located at the foothills of the Murge and reaches an altitude ranging from 92 to 189 meters; the town hall is located at an altitude of 141 meters. The municipal territory is exposed to flood risks in some areas, such as in the Lama Circoletta, where illegal houses have been built.
The climate of Bitetto
The climate of the area is typically Mediterranean, with cool winters and hot summers. The nearest meteorological station to Bitetto is that of Bari Palese. In 2007, the highest temperature in the area was recorded at Bari Palese: 45.6 degrees Celsius. The absolute minimum temperature, on the other hand, dates back to January 3, 1993, when -6 degrees Celsius were recorded.
The origins of the name Bitetto
Bitetto derives from Bitectum, a Latin form dating back to the Roman era, when the agricultural territory was divided into districts such as Babuctam (today Bavotta), Clausurae (today Chiusure) and, indeed, Bitectum. Other possible origins of the name are Vitetum, which means "land rich in vines", and Bis Tectum, which means "two roofs".
Points of interest in Bitetto
Bitetto is a city rich in history and culture. One of the main attractions of the city is the Church of San Michele Arcangelo, which in the past was also the cathedral of the village. Inside the church, many valuable objects and works of art are preserved, including an eighteenth-century wooden crucifix and a baroque-style altar.
Another place of interest is the Delfino fountain, located in the main square of the city. This fountain dates back to the eighteenth century and was built in local white stone.
Bitetto also hosts the bread museum, where you can learn about the history and tradition of Apulian bread. Another interesting museum is the museum of peasant civilization, where you can admire the tools and objects used by local peasant families.
Finally, Bitetto is known for the presence of the remains of Giacomo Illirico, a lay friar who died in odor of sanctity, whose body remained intact over the centuries.
Conclusions
We have now reached the end of our journey of discovery of Bitetto. As you have seen, this city offers many interesting places to visit and discover, not only for those who love history and culture, but also for art and peasant tradition enthusiasts. Bitetto is a city that can satisfy the tastes of everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Come and discover Bitetto!
