Teatro Margherita (Margaret Theatre), Bari

Margaret Theatre (Teatro Margherita) is a former theatre in Bari transformed into a museum of contemporary art. Its history dates back to the early 20th century when it was constructed to replace the Varietà Margherita, a wooden theater that faced strong criticism from local entrepreneurs and the Petruzzelli family, who saw it as a potential rival to their own Petruzzelli Theater.

Built between 1912 and 1914 near Bari's Old Port, the Margherita Theater was designed in the Art Nouveau style by architect Francesco De Giglio. It was a pioneering structure in Bari, utilizing reinforced concrete and featuring a unique construction on pillars. To access the theater, a pier connected it to the mainland due to its surrounding water. The grand opening of the theater took place on August 22, 1914.

The building itself showcases Art Nouveau influences, with a rectangular layout and a prominent façade adorned with a wide arch. Flanking the arch are two towers with decorative pinnacles, complemented by large windows bordered by pilasters featuring Corinthian capitals. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a spacious entrance hall crowned by a dome embellished with stucco and frescoes dating back to its inauguration in 1914.