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Alghero

map of Alghero with the marked places of interest

Alghero, town wall

For many travelers to Sardinia, Alghero is the most beautiful city on the island. However, Alghero is not typically Sardinian – the over 400 years of Spanish influence ensured that.
Even today, the city retains a distinctly Spanish vibe. Many residents have Catalan roots, Catalan dishes are offered in restaurants, and street signs are bilingual (Italian and Spanish).

The old town resembles a large fortress with its sturdy walls.

Alghero, fortified town wall

The first fortifications were erected by the Genoese. After the Spanish conquest, the fortifications were expanded. Sardinians and Genoese were expelled from the city, which now had a purely Catalan population.

Sardinians were forbidden from staying overnight – as in Cagliari as well.

The fortifications and bastions on the seaside, with their meter-thick walls and towers, are still well-preserved.

Some bunker facilities date back to the time of World War II.

Alghero, catapult

On the bastion, there are also some old cannons and catapults.

Especially in the evening, at sunset, you can enjoy atmospheric walks here.
Numerous restaurants on the wall offer typical dishes of the city.

Alghero, historic center

The old town of Alghero offers numerous attractions. Make sure to park outside the “Centro Storico” as most streets within the city walls are closed to traffic.
The often narrow, shady alleys are ideal for a leisurely stroll. There are many bars and gelaterias for resting and refreshing.

The best time to visit the city is after the siesta when the heat subsides. Many shops remain open until late evening. Most shops can be found on Via Carlo Alberto and Via Roma.

Alghero, Chiesa San Francesco

In the center, it is recommended to visit some beautiful churches, such as the Cattedrale Santa Maria or the Chiesa San Michele with its colorful dome.

A particularly beautiful gem is the Chiesa San Francesco from the 14th century.
Expansion and renovation works were carried out in the 16th century, blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements.
The church is part of the adjacent Franciscan monastery, which features a beautiful cloister. (photo)
The original cloister with its sandstone columns dates back to the 14th century. The upper floors were built 400 years later.

Alghero, beach

If you want to swim in the area, especially in the north of Alghero, there is a fine sandy, white beach stretching to Fertilia.
South of the city, an impressive rocky coast extends towards Bosa – one of the most beautiful scenic routes in Sardinia. Here you will find small bathing opportunities, and at Cala Speranza, there is also a longer sandy stretch.

Every year on August 15th, there is a large city festival – the “Ferragosto Algherese” – which makes a visit to Alghero particularly attractive.
Music events and typical culinary specialties are offered, and in the evening, there is a grand fireworks display.