BariExperience.com | Piazza Mercantile, where it is located and what to see in the historic square of Bari Vecchia. Piazza Mercantile, a blend of history and nightlife, is one of the busiest squares in Bari, Puglia. Which squares to visit in Bari? Piazza Mercantile.

Piazza Mercantile: the beating heart of Bari's historic center

Piazza Mercantile is one of the most famous and historic squares in the city of Bari .

Built in the Middle , it immediately acquired social, political and economic importance.

Located in the heart of Bari's old town (the famous Bari Vecchia), Piazza Mercantile still enjoys a significant attendance of young people, families, and tourists.

It is surrounded by buildings that have marked the history of the old city, such as the Palazzo del Sedile dei nobili (dating back to the 16th century) and various historical attractions such as the Pigna fountain (also known as the fountain of the 4 faces) and, above all, the Column of Justice (nicknamed by the people of Bari as the infamous column ).

The Column of Justice

And this column is the square's defining feature; it represented the city's pillory, the column where all those in debt, insolvent, or bankrupt were chained and displayed to the public.

Piazza Mercantile now transformed from a place where Bari residents congregated and traded goods to a vibrant nightlife hub. Thanks to several urban developments aimed at preserving and enhancing the area, it continues to maintain its historic, distinctive, and evocative character.

When you come to Bari, it's incredibly difficult not to pass by Piazza Mercantile , but above all, it's inevitable that you'll stop in one of the many bars surrounding it.
What are you looking for: a bar? A restaurant? A pub? You're spoiled for choice.