1. Isabella of Aragon and her daughter Bona
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE
DUCHY OF BARI
2. ISABELLA OF ARAGON
Isabella arrived in Bari in September 1501, with her daughter Bona,
and settled in Norman-Swabia castle of Bari.
She inherited the Duchy of Bari from the king of
Naples Federico and drove it with care and intelligence.
Isabella of Aragon acted, in the administration of her
Duchy, many renovations and invested in public works
like the rebuilding of the pier, the restructuring of the
castle and the project to surround the city with
a channel for the defense.
In support of her people she introduced a number of initiatives:
- she surveyed public officials so they do not commit abuse on the people;
- she exempted farmers from payment of duties on agriculture;
- she favored public education;
- she did prosper businesses, industries and arts (she loved being surrounded by artists
and writers).
3. BONA SFORZA
When Isabella of Aragon died in 1524, the Duchy of Bari passed to her
daughter Bona, who ruled it, staying in Poland. On 13 May 1556, Bona
Left Poland to return to Bari, where she was received with great joy by
the people. The duchess was concerned with the misery of the city,
making many public works. She died in November 1557 and was buried
in the Basilica of San Nicola.
