The Water Anomaly: Bari's Teatro Margherita, Europe's Only Theater on Stilts
Rising from the historic port of Bari, Teatro Margherita is the only theater in Europe constructed entirely on stilts. Built in the early 20th century to circumvent a construction ban imposed by the Petruzzelli family, it was initially linked to the mainland via a pontoon. The original wooden edifice was destroyed by fire, leading to architects Francesco De Giglio and engineer Luigi Santarella completing the current structure in 1914. This building showcases the 'solaio a margherita' technique and was among the first in southern Italy to utilize the Hennebique reinforced concrete system. Throughout the 20th century, it fulfilled various functions, including a cinema, and after its closure in 1980, it was restored and reopened as a venue for international art exhibitions.
Key facts
- Teatro Margherita is the only theater in Europe built entirely on stilts.
- Construction was a legal loophole to bypass a ban on building theaters on city land.
- The first wooden theater, Eden Margherita, was destroyed by fire.
- The current building was constructed between 1912 and 1914 by architect Francesco De Giglio and engineer Luigi Santarella.
- The theater gave its name to the 'solaio a margherita' construction technique.
- It was an early example of the Hennebique reinforced concrete system in southern Italy.
- During WWII, it was used as a club for Allied troops called Teatro Garrison.
- The theater closed in 1980 and has been restored as an exhibition space.
- The building is located at Molo San Nicola in Bari's old port.
- The facade is Art Nouveau with a rosy color and large windows.
Entities
Artists
- Francesco De Giglio
- Luigi Santarella
Institutions
- Teatro Margherita
- Società Anonima Pubblici Divertimenti Orfeo
- Petruzzelli family
Locations
- Bari
- Italy
- Molo San Nicola
- Europe