How to use the guide?

It’s really easy!

The itinerary I have created is set up so that you have a practical route to explore the city! Before each attraction you will find buttons like the one below 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻

Example !

Just press over the button and you will be guided with google maps to the next point! Once you reach your destination you can come back to this guide and read or listen to all the information and trivia!

In the next paragraph I will also leave you with a map of the entire route but you won’t need it to explore the city!

If you want to see a demo of how to use the guide, click on the button below 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻

Show me a demo!
What to do in Alghero in a day?

Alghero is one of the most important cities in Sardinia, the second largest island in Italy. Also known as the “City of Coral”, Alghero is famous for the beauty of its landscapes, its history and its rich production of red coral jewelry.

 

 

I first visited this place a few years ago when I was on holiday with some friends and I have to admit I really liked it!😉

 

Thanks to the help of Caterina, a local guide, I was able to write this itinerary for you.

 

The route I propose today is suitable for everyone and is about 2 kilometers long. We will start from the Portal Tower (click here to get there) and end our tour at the Tower ofSant’Elmo.

 

PS: if you need any support, feel free to text me on my WhatsApp by clicking here!

And now… let’s start our tour! 

The tour!

Map Preview & How to use it

Let me show you the preview of our route! By scrolling the guide you will find buttons to click that will always take you to the next attraction/monument (so this map is just to give you an idea about the itinerary, no need to use it now🤓)!

The yellow markers are the monuments and attractions we will see.

The brown markers are some extras not included in our tour but which you can visit if you have time left.

The red indicators, on the other hand, are some of my favorite restaurants (I tell you more about them at the end)!

I would say we are ready to get started!

Introduction & History of the city

Alghero is located in the north-western part of the island of Sardinia and has approximately 42,000 inhabitants.

Also known as the “pearl of the Coral Coast”, a portion of the north-western coast of Sardinia renowned for the extraordinary beauty of its sea, beaches and seabeds rich in red Mediterranean coral.

Founded in medieval times, Alghero experienced a long period of Aragonese and Catalan domination, which left an indelible mark on its culture, language and architecture.

 

For this very reason it is also known as the “Barceloneta of Sardiniaì”.

 

Before we begin our exploration, here’s a little historical background!

The first evidence of human presence in the Alghero area dates back to the Nuragic civilization that settled in the territory from 1800 to 500 BC, as demonstrated by the numerous archaeological sites in the vicinity, including the Nuraghe Palmavera and the Anghelu Ruju complex, a prehistoric necropolis.

Medieval period

Alghero became an important maritime and commercial base in the 12th century thanks to the Genoese Doria family. During this period, the city became a strategic port for trade in the Mediterranean.

Aragonese Conquest

In 1354, Alghero was conquered by the Aragonese under the command of Peter IV of Aragon. After the conquest, the local population was partly exiled and replaced with settlers from Catalonia. This event deeply marked the identity of Alghero, which developed a Catalan character still visible in the language, architecture and traditions.

During Aragonese and later Spanish rule, Alghero prospered as a maritime and agricultural center. Its historic center, with defensive walls and bastions overlooking the sea, dates largely from this period.

Savoy Domination

In 1720 , Sardinia came under the control of the Savoy. Alghero also became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia and was integrated into the new Savoy administrative structure. During this period, the city maintained its importance as a port and as a center of agricultural production, particularly for wine and oil.

In the 20th century, Alghero underwent economic and social transformations, especially with the development of tourism.

The origin of the name Alghero is linked to the natural characteristics and history of the city. One of the most accredited theories suggests that it derives from the Latin “alga”, due to the abundant presence of algae along the coasts of the territory. This connection with the sea would be consistent with the central role that Alghero has always had as a coastal city.

During the period of Catalan domination, the city was called “L’Alguer”, a name that it still retains in the Catalan variant of Algherese. Even in this case, the toponym could maintain the reference to algae or geographical aspects of the place.

Some scholars hypothesize a pre-Roman origin of the name, linked to the ancient Nuragic or Phoenician-Punic populations who inhabited Sardinia, but this interpretation remains less documented than the others.

Alghero is unique in Sardinia for the persistence of the Catalan language, known as “Catalano Algherese” , which is still spoken by a part of the population and officially recognized. This legacy is a living testimony to the long Catalan and Spanish influence on the city.

We begin our visit from the Portal Tower!

let's start 🇮🇹 !

A. Portal Tower

The Tower was built in the 14th century, precisely in the medieval period, as part of the defensive walls of the city of Alghero. This is the only remaining part of the city walls on the land side, which were completely demolished after 1867.

Initially known as Porta Reial, it represented the main entrance to the city coming from Sassari, and was closed in the evening to be reopened in the morning. Later, during the Savoy era, it was called Porta a Terra, to distinguish it from the gates that were located near the sea or along the walls towards the outside.

The portal is framed by sandstone blocks arranged in a semicircle. The tower has a particular shape: from the opposite side to the portal, it appears as a parallelepiped. This shape is not only an aesthetic choice, but also has a strategic and functional value. The parallelepiped shape gives the tower greater solidity and stability, essential for a defensive construction.

The Tower is also known as the Tower of the Jews because its construction, which took place in the 14th century, is said to have been financed or partly realized with the contribution of the Jewish community of Alghero. At that time, Jews were present in Sardinia and in many cities, including Alghero, where they had an active community.

Despite being on the land side, where the walls were demolished, the tower managed to save itself from destruction and remained isolated. Today it hosts an information point dedicated to the promotion and enhancement of the city’s cultural heritage.

The land of nuraghi is Sardinia, the second largest island in Italy and the Mediterranean Sea. Nuraghi are ancient stone constructions dating back to the Bronze Age, typical of the Nuragic civilization, which developed on the island between 1800 and 500 BC

The most famous nuraghe is Su Nuraxi di Barumini, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Even in Alghero there are several Nuragic sites that testify to the presence of the Nuragic civilization in this area.

Let’s continue our tour and reach the Church of San Francesco!

Andiamo 🇮🇹 !

B. Church of San Francesco

The church of San Francesco is one of the most significant examples of Gothic-Catalan architecture in Sardinia.

Built by the Conventual Friars Minor at the end of the 15th century, the church stands on the site of a small chapel preceded by a vegetable garden. The building is part of a complex that also includes the convent, the cloister and the bell tower.

The current church, however, is the result of a reconstruction completed by 1598, after a collapse had destroyed the central part and several side chapels. The renovation brought a mix of architectural styles, with influences of the period. The original Gothic layout, including the cloister, is still visible in the presbytery and chapels. The facade of the church is sober.

The interior has three naves, separated by round arches. The high altar, in Rococo style and built in the 18th century, is in polychrome marble. The baroque altars in gilded wood in the left nave, made by the Alghero workshop Masala in 1730, add a further touch of elegance. The capitals of the presbytery chapels depict the plants of the ancient friars’ garden.

From the cloister you can access the sacristy and admire the rectangular courtyard on two levels. The lower level is characterized by 22 sandstone columns dating back to the sixteenth century, while the colonnade of the upper level was built in the eighteenth century.

The bell tower, built in 1632, has a square base on which rests a hexagonal structure in Gothic style, surmounted by a spire with cat ornaments. At the base of the bell tower there is a small chapel with a vault decorated with a terracotta gem depicting St. Francis receiving the stigmata. Climbing 64 steps and passing through a trapdoor, you reach the bell tower, from which you can enjoy a spectacular view of Alghero and the Coral Coast.

The bell tower is one of the few remaining structures that bear witness to the type of spire tower once common in Catalonia. The square base dates back to the original 14th-century design. On the ground floor, in the Convent area, accessible from the Cloister, a small chapel was built.

The bell tower was built after 1593, when a collapse severely damaged the church, destroying much of the central area and the chapels. The bell tower was erected in 1632, but the square base was modified to develop a hexagonal shape in Gothic-Catalan style. The bell tower houses three working bells.

It is possible to visit the bell tower and climb the tower from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city and its splendid Riviera del Corallo.

The complex’s opening hours are quite “messy”. I’ll leave the references below!

From April 2nd to May 31st the complex is open to the public with the following hours: Monday from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm; Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm; Thursday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm; Friday and Saturday from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The facility is closed on Sundays. From June 1st to September 30th the complex is open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. It is closed on Sundays. From October 2nd to March 31st The complex has the following opening hours: Monday from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Thursday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is closed on Sundays.

As for the bell tower, from April 2nd to May 31st there are the following hours: Tuesday from 9:30 to 13:00, Friday and Saturday from 9:30 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00. On Sundays it is closed. From June 1st to September 30th the bell tower is open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 19:00. On Sundays it is closed. From October 2nd to March 31st it is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 9:30 to 12:30 and from 15:00 to 17:00.

The ticket to visit both the complex and the bell tower costs €6.

As I have already explained, Alghero was under the influence of Aragonese for a long time in the 14th century.

This strong bond with Catalonia is reflected in the culture of the place. For example, even today, the signs of the streets of the city have two names: the current one in Italian and the historical one in Catalan.

Now we move on to the Archaeological Museum of the city of Alghero!

to the museum 🇮🇹 !

C. Archaeological Museum of Alghero

The Archaeological Museum of Alghero, also commonly known as “Musa”, is located in a 15th-16th century building in the heart of the city’s historic center, next to the church of S. Michele. Inaugurated on December 22, 2016, after the completion of renovation and installation works, the museum was previously known to the inhabitants of Alghero as “Les presonetes”.

Literally translated from Catalan, “les presonetes” means “the prisons” or “the jails”. This name comes from the function that the building had in the past: in fact, before being used as a museum, the building housed the city prisons.

The museum’s collection includes finds that testify to the first human settlements in the area, from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages, discovered during excavations both inside and outside the urban center.

The museum also offers an exclusive view of sites that are no longer accessible to the public, but which continue to be the subject of archaeological and anthropological studies and research. The historical traces preserve the city’s identity and highlight its importance over the centuries, both in Sardinia and in the Mediterranean.

The exhibition itinerary unfolds in three thematic sections that follow a chronological order: the Sea, the Ways of Living and the World of the Sacred. Through a series of accurate environmental reconstructions the itinerary traverses the prehistory and history of the city, highlighting its importance in the economy and maritime traffic since ancient times.

The City Museum exhibits a representation that reconstructs the seabed of the area where the medieval wreck of Capo Galera, dating back to the 12th-13th century, was found.

From the recovered remains, the vessel’s cargo included amphorae, cordage, plant woven fabrics and fragments of jars of Islamic origin. According to the hypotheses, the vessel would have found shelter in the inlet of Capo Galera, but was taken by surprise and sunk by a violent storm. Among the materials found, a significant quantity of rough coral branches was also discovered, although the original destination of this precious cargo remains unknown.

In the Archaeological Museum of the city there are several coral finds, a resource that in nature appears in different chromatic variations. Although red is the most well-known shade, there are also white and pink corals, equally appreciated over time.

Historical chronicles report the discovery of coral objects during excavations in the 16th century burials in the Cemetery of Saint Michael in Alghero. Among these, the skeleton of a young woman stands out, wearing a pendant made of a branch of pink coral, set in a silver capsule engraved with decorative motifs. In another burial, a small pendant in the shape of a small amphora was discovered, also made of pink coral.

These findings testify to the symbolic and ornamental value of coral, deeply rooted in Mediterranean culture.

The museum is open at the following times:

  • Monday: 10:30 – 13:00
  • Tuesday: 4:30pm – 7:00pm
  • Wednesday: 10:30 – 13:00
  • Thursday: 4:30pm – 7:00pm
  • Friday: 10:30 – 13:00 | 16:30 – 19:00
  • Saturday: 10:30 – 13:00 | 16:30 – 19:00
  • Sunday: 10:30 – 13:00 | 16:30 – 19:00

The ticket to visit the museum costs €5.



Next to the Museum we find the Church of Saint Michael!

Andiamo 🇮🇹 !

Church of Saint Michael

The Church of Saint Michael is one of the main places of worship in Alghero and one of the most important examples of Baroque art in Sardinia. Its famous dome, one of the most recognizable symbols of the city.

The church, which dates back to 1364, temporarily became a cathedral between 1503 and 1593, awaiting the completion of the church of Santa Maria. The current appearance of the building dates back to the 17th century, with work beginning in 1612. The most significant intervention was that of Bishop Bacallar, who entrusted the management to the Jesuits, a Catholic religious order. The design of the church was entrusted to the architect Domenico Sontorno, who created one of the most representative works of the Baroque style in Sardinia, completing the work in 1675.

The facade of the church is made of sandstone blocks and has a smooth wall with three large windows. The wooden portal is decorated with bas-relief and high-relief sculptures representing the Annunciation and the Holy Spirit. The simplicity of the facade enhances the magnificence of the dome, symbol of the city, which has an octagonal plan and rests on a high drum. The dome is covered with polychrome tiles designed by Antonio Simon Mossa and Filippo Figari in 1950. This dome represents the soul of the city of Alghero still strongly influenced by the period of Catalan domination. The colors in fact recall Catalonia.

The interior of the church has a single nave, with a barrel vault supported by arches resting on Corinthian columns. The central altar houses a large painting depicting the Archangel Michael.

The figure of Saint Michael is also present in a monumental wooden statue in the chapel dedicated to him.

The church has six side chapels, three on each side. The chapel on the left, dedicated to the Immaculate Madonna, is beautifully decorated with stucco and tells scenes from the life of the Madonna, depicted in the main painting with her feet on the moon, surrounded by angels and dominated by the Trinity. The chapels of the transept and that of the Madonna della Freccia have imposing baroque altars, perfectly decorated with great attention to detail.

Every year, at the end of September, Alghero celebrates its patron saint with the festival of Sant Miquel, a twelve-day tradition that includes religious celebrations and cultural performances.

Made of wood, the work measures 38 cm and is attributed to Sicilian craftsmanship of the 19th century, based on its stylistic characteristics. The sculpture depicts the Baby Jesus in a reclining position, with his arms stretched out in front. He wears a white robe decorated with red coral jewels set in gold, which embellish the whole.

In popular culture, necklaces, amulets and talismans made of “red gold” or red coral were believed to be effective against the evil eye and negative influences.

This statue was found in the Church of Saint Michael but is now kept in the collection of the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art of Alghero.

According to legend, in a time of great conflict for the city of Alghero, the city was threatened by the devil and dark forces. The devil tried in every way to overwhelm the city, bringing chaos, destruction and death. In response to this threat, Saint Michael, the protector of the city, came down from heaven to fight against evil. The battle between the archangel and the devil was long and violent, but in the end Saint Michael triumphed, thus protecting Alghero and its inhabitants. The victory of Saint Michael symbolized the victory of good over evil, of light against darkness.

Now let’s move until we reach the Tower of San Giovanni!

Andiamo 🇮🇹 !

D. Tower of San Giovanni

The Tower of San Giovanni, built in sandstone in the 16th century, is a notable example of the Catalan-Aragonese style.

This tower was built for military purposes and was also nicknamed “Middle Tower” for its strategic position in the defensive system of the city of Alghero. Located in the heart of the historic center, it served as a connection between the other towers and bastions of the city..

Originally as imposing as the Sperone Tower, the Tower of San Giovanni seems to have been reduced in size around the 1630s. In the past, the main entrance was located at the base of the upper floor, reachable through a passageway cut into the thickness of the curtain wall.

This tower was often used as a bomb shelter during the Second World War.

Currently, the tower is used as an exhibition space for exhibitions.

The tower is open on Fridays and Sundays from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, while on Saturdays from 11 am to 1 pm and from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. On other days it is closed, the ticket varies according to the exhibition set up inside.

Legend has it that in ancient times a gentle giant lived in the Alghero area and took care of the local people.

The giant, named Giantone or Good Giant, was a man of extraordinary size but with a tender heart. Despite his imposing figure, he was known for his kindness and for the help he offered to the inhabitants of the city. It was said that he carried enormous rocks to build the defensive walls of Alghero and that, with his strength, he protected the villages from predators.

He also loved to walk near the coast of Alghero and help the fishermen to bring their fishing boats to shore. Capo Caccia was one of the giant’s favorite places for his walks. It is said that, during his life, the giant was so big and strong that he could “chase” even dangers from the sea and the land, and so the italian name “Caccia” would be linked precisely to this protective role.

Now we head to the famous Coral Museum of Alghero!

to the museum 🇮🇹 !

E. Coral Museum of Alghero

Here we are in one of the main cultural attractions of the city, located right in the heart of the historic center. Alghero has always been known as the “City of Coral” for the tradition of working with red coral that dates back centuries. The museum celebrates and preserves this artisan tradition, showing the evolution of coral as an ornamental and symbolic material in the local culture.

The museum houses a large collection of jewelry, art objects and historical artifacts made from coral, including necklaces, bracelets, pendants, amulets and sculptures. These pieces tell the story of the long tradition of coral working in Alghero, which dates back to the medieval period, when the art of coral working spread thanks to the presence of local fishermen and artisans.

Alghero has been an important centre for coral fishing and processing for centuries, thanks to its position on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

Coral processing became an activity of great economic and cultural importance, and even today coral is considered a distinctive symbol of the city. The museum allows visitors to explore the history of coral fishing and local craftsmanship, with details on traditional techniques and the secrets of its use in jewelry.

The ticket for the museum costs 5€ to which you need to add 3€ if you also want a guided tour inside the museum. The museum is open every day. Monday and Wednesday from 16:30 to 19:00, Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30 to 13:00 while Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 to 13:00 and from 16:30 to 19:00.

Red coral is one of the marine wonders that populate the seabed of the coast of Alghero, so much so that the area is given the title of “Coral Coast”. This treasure hidden in the deep waters has always been an object of great fascination and is extracted with strict regulations that govern its collection.

The mythical origins of red coral are linked to one of the most famous myths told by Ovid in his “Metamorphoses”. Here, coral is associated with Medusa, the gorgon with terrible features, with snakes instead of hair and the power to petrify anyone who looked at her.

Legend has it that when the hero Perseus beheaded Medusa, he placed her head in a sack, covering it with seaweed and rushes. When they came into contact with the Gorgon’s blood, these plants petrified and turned red, taking on the branched appearance of coral. Ovid, in his story, explains that, even today, corals acquire rigidity and color when they come into contact with air, a process that harks back to ancient myth.

For this reason, red coral is often also called “gorgonia” or “blood stone”, in memory of the blood of Medusa that marked its birth. An eternal symbol of beauty and mystery that continues to enchant anyone who has the privilege of admiring it on the seabed.

We continue our tour until we reach the Sperone Tower!

let's go 🇮🇹 !

F. Sperone Tower

The Sperone Tower takes its name from the presence of an adjacent rocky spur, which was part of the city’s network of fortifications.

This tower is called by several names, one of which is Torre de l’Esperó Reial in Catalan.

The term “Esperó” comes from Catalan and indicates a rock spur, while the term “Reial” or “royal” was added to underline the importance of the tower as part of the official defense of the city, desired by the Crown of Aragon.

Furthermore, the Tower is now better known as the Tower of Sulis, a name given to it after the revolutionary from Cagliari Vincenzo Sulis was imprisoned there in 1820, spending 22 years of isolation inside. Vincenzo Sulis participated in a series of revolutionary events that aimed to liberate Sardinia from Spanish rule and obtain greater autonomy for the island. This period, known as the revolutions of 1820-1821 in Europe, saw many political tensions, with liberation movements and attempts to obtain more modern constitutions in several regions, including Sardinia.

Sulis was involved in the liberal movement that opposed the absolutist government of the Spanish. He was arrested after the failure of the revolutionary attempt of 1820, which aimed to obtain greater independence for Sardinia, and imprisoned in the Tower.

According to legend, Sulis, during her long imprisonment, made a pact with nature and the sea. It is said that her soul remained tied to the tower and that, every year, during particular nights, it is possible to see a mysterious light emanating from the tower, as a sign of her eternal resistance.

Built in the first half of the 16th century, the tower was one of the main defensive bastions of Alghero and is undoubtedly one of the most imposing structures in the city. Its walls, about 6 meters thick, are spread over three floors, each covered by high vaults supported by mighty ribs. The floors of the tower are connected by an internal spiral staircase, built into the thickness of the walls.

The current entrance, located on the ground floor, was added in more recent times, after the demolition of the walls that connected the towers of San Giacomo and San Giovanni. In the past, access was on the first floor, which was reached by walking along the top of the surrounding walls.

Like many other towers in the city, the Sperone Tower has also been used to host exhibitions, shows and artistic installations.

The large cannons on the sides of the tower were placed in the 1970s, after being recovered from a Spanish galleon that sank in the waters off Alghero around 1500.

Now let’s move on to the Tower of Saint James!

Andiamo 🇮🇹 !

G. Tower of Saint James

Located at the end of the Bastioni Cristoforo Colombo, the Tower of Saint James stands out for its unmistakable octagonal shape. Built in the 16th century in homage to King James I the Conqueror, it features architectural details of Catalan inspiration, such as the niche at the entrance and the spiral staircase that leads to the lower level.

In the past, the tower was known as the “Torre dei Cani”which means “Tower Of Dogs” because it housed the municipal dog kennel. Today, however, it represents a point of connection between the Bastioni Cristoforo Colombo and the Bastioni Marco Polo, which extend to the former Old Hospital, now home to the Faculty of Architecture.

Currently, the tower serves as an information point for the Capo Caccia and Isola Piana Marine Protected Area. Inside, it houses several exhibitions including the Biodiversity Observatory with a dolphin spotting point, an interactive exhibition on the underwater and sound landscapes of the marine protected area, and a first aid centre for sea turtles.

We continue our walk along the ancient city walls until we reach the Bastions of Marco Polo!

Andiamo 🇮🇹 !

Marco Polo Bastions

The Marco Polo Bastions of Alghero are part of the ancient fortified walls of the city, built to protect the town from invasions. These bastions, named after Marco Polo, the famous Venetian traveler, are located along the north-western part of the city, overlooking the sea and the port area.

The purpose of the walls was to protect the city from pirate raids and rival powers in the Mediterranean, especially the Republic of Genoa. The position of the bastions, close to the sea, allowed for a good defense of the city, also facilitating the control of the sea routes.

The name ” Marco Polo Bastions” could derive from the link with the figure of Marco Polo, who, although originally from Venice, traveled extensively in the Mediterranean. However, the name could also be symbolic, linked to the tradition of travelers and trade routes that connected Alghero with other cities in the Mediterranean, such as Genoa and Venice.

According to legend, on clear nights or during storms, the waves that lap the coasts of Alghero seem to whisper voices coming from the ocean. These voices are attributed to the souls of sailors who died at sea or to wandering spirits who wander the waters, unable to find peace. Some say that the voices are those of fishermen who lost their lives at sea due to sudden storms or shipwrecks, while others believe that they are the souls of travelers or sailors who never returned from their long voyages.

The voices, which are said to be heard especially near the coast or near Capo Caccia, are described as distant and mysterious sounds, which seem to come from the sea itself. Some say that, on certain foggy nights, the voices of men can be clearly heard shouting, calling or crying, but no one can ever explain exactly where they come from.

Furthermore, there is also a version that links the voices to the spirits of people who have betrayed their companions or violated ancient laws of respect towards the sea. These spirits, unable to find peace, would be condemned to wander among the waves for eternity.

Sardinian masks are a fundamental element of the folkloristic traditions of Sardinia, mainly linked to Carnival and religious or pagan rites that still take place today between January and February. Each area of the island has its own typical masks, which represent natural forces, divinities, or mythological characters.

Among the most famous are the Mamuthones and Issohadores, characterized by wooden masks and cowbells, a symbol of purification and renewal. They may seem scary at first sight but in reality they symbolize the necessary passage from winter to spring for the fertility of the earth.

Another very important mask is that of Sa Filonzana or the spinner, this is a mask still shrouded in mystery that symbolizes the end of the cycle of life.

The masks represent a historical continuity that connects the new generations to the deepest roots of Sardinia.

Now we will visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Immacolata of Alghero!

to the church 🇮🇹 !

H. Cathedral of Santa Maria Immacolata of Alghero

The Cathedral of Santa Maria in Alghero is the main ecclesiastical monument of the city, one of the gems of north-west Sardinia.

If you look at Alghero from the sea, beyond the port and the city walls, you will notice the shape of the bell tower of Santa Maria.

When the diocese of Alghero-Bosa was established in 1503, the city did not yet have a cathedral. Its construction began in 1530. The architectural design, which developed over the centuries, reflects a fusion of styles: the base has Gothic-Catalan characteristics, inspired by the Cathedral of Sant’Eulalia in Barcelona, while the subsequent modifications follow a late-Renaissance design. Although the cathedral was consecrated in 1593, the work was not yet finished! In 1638, the transept roof and the cross dome were completed.

The octagonal bell tower is the symbol of the cathedral, surmounted by a pyramidal spire covered in polychrome majolica, typical of Catalonia, and enriched by arches and pinnacles.

The main portal, located in Piazza del Duomo, is preceded by an imposing neoclassical pronaos (the pronaos in ancient temples is the space in front of the cella preceded by columns. By extension, it indicates the front part of any building (even modern) that has a shape similar to that of a temple, with a colonnaded façade and pediment) with Doric columns and a triangular tympanum, built in 1820.

The interior of the building has a Latin cross plan, divided into three naves by pillars.

The church has a Latin cross plan with a central nave and two lateral ones, all divided by columns. The ceiling is decorated with an important barrel vault, while the walls are adorned with some works of art.

Inside, there are several chapels dedicated to saints, with wooden and marble altars. The main altar made by Giuseppe Massetti in 1727 is imposing, with a statue of the Immaculate Madonna in the center, which represents the spiritual heart of the place.

Among the cathedral’s treasures, the gilded and polychrome altarpiece of the Virgin Mary and the Souls in Purgatory, a work by Michele Masala from 1742, stands out.

Entrance to the church is free and it is open every day from 7am to 7pm.

We conclude our tour with a visit to St. Elmo’s Tower!

Andiamo 🇮🇹 !

I. Tower of St. Elmo

The Tower of St. Elmo is one of the main defensive towers of the city, located in the heart of the historic center, near the sea. It was built in the 16th century during the period of Spanish fortifications, to protect the city from enemy incursions, especially pirates .

The Tower, with its distinctive coat of arms of the Crown of Aragon, is an example of circular architecture typical of the 16th century.

It has a square plan and a sturdy structure, with thick and high walls. Its strategic position made it an ideal observation point to monitor the surrounding coasts and prevent attacks.

The tower is dedicated to St. Elmo, the patron saint of sailors, whose devotion to Alghero has very ancient roots, as evidenced by an altar dedicated to him in the Grotta Verde, near Capo Caccia.

Since 1950, the tower has housed an imposing bronze statue of the Madonna of Stella Maris, which is why this tower is also known as “la Madonnina”.

Nearby is the ancient gate of St. Elmo, which had been walled up for a long time but was recently reopened.

Lake Baratz is the only natural lake in Sardinia and is surrounded by a mysterious legend.

It is said that, in a distant time, in the place where Lake Baratz stands today, there was a city called Barax. Traces of its existence would be preserved in ancient documents, hidden in a mysterious place. However, what matters is that that city no longer exists. Or rather, we do not see it, because it would have been submerged by the waters.

Barax was inhabited by a population of selfish and pleasure-seeking people, and for this reason the city attracted divine punishment. According to legend, it was God himself who decided to sink it.

It is said that, on that fateful night, God, disguised as a traveler, appeared to a local girl, warning her to flee immediately, but with only one recommendation: never look back, for any reason in the world.

The young woman, frightened, began to run away, but as she was walking down the street, she heard a very loud noise: it was the sound of the city being swallowed by the earth. She could not resist the temptation and turned around. In that instant she was transformed into stone and, like her city, was submerged by the water that rose from nowhere, covering the entire area.

Today, it is said that on full moon nights, the tolling of the bells of Barax can still be heard from deep within the lake, along with the desperate cries of the inhabitants. Some also claim to have seen ghostly figures wandering near its shores.

Our exploration is over! But there is one important topic left: the typical dishes of the city!

Typical dishes and where to eat them

The typical dishes of this city represent the meeting between Sardinian traditions and Catalan influence, making Alghero’s cuisine unique and irresistible.

A variation of the traditional Spanish paella, influenced by the Catalan culture of Alghero. It combines fresh seafood such as mussels, shrimp, calamari with vegetables and rice.

 


The city’s signature dish, lobster, is served with a light sauce of fresh tomatoes, onions and olive oil. It’s a perfect combination of simplicity and authentic seafood flavours.

Typical of the Alghero coast, sea urchins are a delicacy often served raw, accompanied by bread and a drizzle of oil, or as a condiment for simple, tasty pasta dishes.


Traditional Sardinian ravioli filled with potatoes, pecorino cheese, mint and garlic, seasoned with tomato sauce or butter and sage.


Sauce made from garlic, tomato and vinegar, used to flavour fish dishes, especially octopus and blue fish.

They are small toasted balls of semolina, similar to couscous, cooked in broth and often served with seafood such as clams or prawns, for an authentic and rustic flavour.

 

A traditional Sardinian dessert: these are large fried pasta ravioli filled with fresh cheese, often pecorino, flavored with lemon zest. They are served with honey, which creates a perfect balance between sweetness and saltiness.

Roasted suckling pig is the most iconic dish of Sardinia: a suckling pig slowly cooked on a spit over aromatic wood embers such as myrtle or oak. The meat is very tender and succulent, with a crispy and tasty crust, thanks to the use of local aromatic herbs.

Where to eat all these delicacies?

Here you have some tips to enjoy good food in Alghero!

Ristorante Santa Marì Catalan Bistrot: A cool restaurant with high quality products! Click here to get there! 

Ristorante Trattoria Maristella: Typical restaurant with delicious local products. Click here to get there!

Ristorante Movida: Excellent place with a wide selection of typical dishes Click here to get there!

Mabrouk: This restaurant is located inside a 16th century monastery and offers fresh seafood dishes Click here to get there!

La Lepanto: The main dish of this place is the lobster Algherese style Click here to get there!

Trattoria Marco Polo: This restaurant offers typical fish and meat dishes Click here to get there!

Osteria Macchiavello: Historic seafood restaurant located in the historic center. Click here to get there!

Gelateria K2: Great ice cream shop in the city center Click here to get there!

Risto fever: great pizzeria Click here to get there!

 

The end?

Unfortunately, we have finished our tour! However, there are several things around Lucca that you could visit: I’ll leave some tips below!

Neptune’s Grotto

Neptune’s Grotto is a spectacular sea cave located near Alghero, on the north-western coast of Sardinia. Famous for its stalactites and stalagmites, the cave offers a suggestive path between underground lakes and unique limestone formations. It can be reached by sea or via the famous “Escala del Cabirol”, a panoramic staircase of 654 steps.

Maria Pia Beach

Maria Pia Beach is located a short distance from the center of Alghero and is famous for its fine white sand, surrounded by a cool pine forest.

Palmavera Nuragic Complex

The Palmavera Nuragic Complex is one of the most important archaeological sites in Sardinia. Dating back to the Bronze Age, the Nuragic village includes a central tower, huts and housing structures that bear witness to the sophisticated Nuragic civilization. 

Nereo’s Grotto

Considered one of the largest and most fascinating underwater caves in the Mediterranean, Nereo’s Grotto is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. Located near the promontory of Capo Caccia, it offers an intricate system of tunnels and caves populated by a rich marine fauna.

Pond of Calich

Pond of Calich is a wetland of great naturalistic importance, located between Alghero and Fertilia. This ecosystem is home to numerous species of migratory birds, such as pink flamingos and herons. It is an ideal place for walking and bird watching, immersed in uncontaminated nature.

Punta Giglio

Punta Giglio is a promontory located within the Porto Conte Regional Natural Park. It offers a combination of wild nature, panoramic trails and historical remains, such as fortifications from the Second World War. 




All good things must come to an end😬!

First of all, if you enjoyed the tour will be really important for me to have a review on these platforms (also on the platform where you booked, but these platforms that you find below are fundamental).

You can leave a review (no pressure on you for this⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) by clicking on these beautiful buttons!

What about a review on Google 🤩? Just click on the logo!

Click on the logo and leave a review on Truspilot 🤩 

I know that it takes time (actually 4 seconds 😬) but for me this part is really important in order to continue this activity 🥰!

If, on the other hand, you had problems, have suggestions on how to improve it, or want to contact me, feel free to write me on WhatsApp by clicking here!

Are you going to visit other cities?

I have prepared different digital guides to enable you to other cities as well. All guides were written in collaboration with locals so that the most authentic stories and advice could be included!

In these digital guides you will find:

  • Itinerary with the highlights of the city (connected with google maps) 📍
  • Historical info, curiosities and funny facts 🤓
  • FOOD TIPS from locals ! Every city has it’s own typical dishes so it’s super important to know about them 😬 Also, thanks to my local friends, you will discover real local restaurants to try them 😋!

I already prepared a special discount for you, you’ll find everything by clicking here!

Again, if need some support or need any extra info, feel free to write me on WhatsApp by clicking here!

Greetings from your Walking Cap!

Matteo