Palazzo Fizzarotti (Fizzarotti Palace), Bari

Fizzarotti Palace (Palazzo Fizzarotti), located in Bari, is a notable historical edifice. Constructed in 1910 at the heart of the city, it was commissioned by Emanuele Fizzarotti, a prominent banker and entrepreneur. The design of the building was entrusted to Ettore Bernich, a renowned architect known for his leadership in Italian eclecticism. The palace boasts lavishly adorned interior rooms, each showcasing distinct artistic styles and incorporating a variety of materials and techniques.

Situated above the underground spring known as "Mare Isabella," Fizzarotti Palace exhibits multiple architectural layers. Inside, remnants from the 13th century can be observed, reflecting the presence of former convents and refreshment stations that existed outside the medieval city walls. In 1850, Nicola Lagattola facilitated the connection of two separate areas of land through the demolition of the medieval walls and the expansion of the city into the Murattian quarter.

The palace's four reception rooms are particularly captivating, drawing interest and admiration. These include the Hall of Arts and Crafts (Salone del Arti e del Lavoro), the 14th-century Salone, the Pink Hall (Salone Rosa), and the Fireplace Hall (Salone del Caminetto). Access to the latter is gained through the so-called waiting room, which features a remarkable floor mosaic depicting the winged head of Mercury, the god of Commerce. This portrayal serves as a clear allusion to the prosperous financial activities of the building's owner, who played a significant role in the modernization of Bari.