Bari, Italy

 The main Castle in Bari was the home of Frederick II, built in 1233. This Swabian Castle also served as a Renaissance residence for Isabella of Aragon and her daughter Bona Sforza and became a playground for the artists, writers and powerful dignitaries that the two would host.

Saint Nicholas' bones are kept in the Basilicaa of Saint Nicola, commissioned in 1089 to house the stolen relics of Bari's Patron Saint. We know Saint Nicolas as Santa Claus. The legends were built around him because he saved little children from harm and gave them gifts. Many places have him as their patron saint.

(to be continued) 

Ortano

 It was in December 1943. The face to face, house to house fighting was particularly savage. On 28 December, after 8 days of fighting, the depleted German troops finally withdrew from the town The Canadians suffered more than 1300 casualties, many of them buried in the Canadian Cemetery of Ortona.

We then went to our "Home-hosted" lunch. Local people of the town invite small groups of us to their homes and serve us lunch and let us ask questions about life in Italy and they ask us questions about our home. Delicious Food !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(to be continued) 

Ortano, »Little Stalingrad«

 Ortano is an ancient seaport on the Adriatic which dates back some 3000 years. The old town was a jumble of narrow buildings crowded together on a steep promontory thrusting out into the sea.

 It became an important battleground during the Italian campaign during World War II. Ortano offered the Allies a supply port on the Adriatic and was fiercely defended by the Germans. The struggle

between the German paratroopers and the 2nd Canadian Infantry Brigade attracted the attention of the international press, leading this battle to be known as Little Stalingrad."

(to be continued) 

Urbino Sooooo Good

 It is a World Heritage Site notable for a remarkable historical legacy of independent Renaissance culture.

The town is nestled on high sloping hillside and retains much of its picturesque medieval aspect. It and the countryside are beautiful.

We then took the bus to lunch, of course. Can't miss eating. Eating is part of the Italian culture. And it's sooooo good!!

(to be continued)