Alghero, a Catalan city
Discover the beauty of Alghero
Alghero is a coastal town on the north-west coast of Sardinia, Italy. With 44,000 inhabitants it is the fifth-largest town on the island. It is home to Fertilia airport and is known for the popular walk along the harbour bastions, the red roofs against the sky and the natural bay that opens onto an emerald sea. In this article we look at the best of Alghero, from its beaches to its rich cultural heritage.
The Coral Riviera and its beaches
The Coral Riviera is a 90 km stretch of coast that is home to a large colony of the finest coral. Le Bombarde is the best-known beach in the area: its crystal-clear water and clean sandy seabed make it popular with families, young people and surfers. Just one kilometre away is Lazzaretto, with ten coves and soft sandy beaches.
If you prefer something quieter, head to Mugoni beach in the bay of Porto Conte, a sheltered spot with golden sand and calm, clear water. In the town centre you will find the Lido di San Giovanni, while just outside town you can visit the dunes of Maria Pia, dotted with centuries-old juniper trees.
The coast of Alghero is also part of the Capo Caccia – Isola Piana marine protected area, which safeguards hundreds of treasures, including Neptune’s Grotto. You can reach the grotto by land, down the Escala del Cabirol, or by sea, on the boats that leave from the harbour.
Alghero’s rich cultural heritage
Alghero’s cultural heritage goes back to the Neolithic, as shown by the Domus de Janas of Santu Pedru, the necropolis of Anghelu Ruju and the complexes of Palmavera and Sant’Imbenia. The historic centre is the most interesting part of town, a maze of narrow lanes linking lively squares. The yellow walls and old houses reflect the town’s Catalan origins, as do the churches.
The cathedral of Santa Maria (16th century), the church of the Carmelo (late 17th century) with its large gilded retable, San Michele with its coloured ceramic dome and the late-Renaissance church of Sant’Anna (1735) are all worth a visit. If you are looking for culture, visit Casa Manno, a research centre full of important paintings, furniture, books and manuscripts.
Alghero is famous for its fine coral, which is worked with gold into jewellery of every kind. At the Coral Museum you can learn more about the history of coral and its uses.
Festivals and events in Alghero
The big event of 2017 was the opening stage of the Giro d’Italia, the great cycling race that crosses several towns. Another great time to visit is Cap d’Any de l’Alguer, “New Year in Alghero”, when a wide range of events brings the town centre to life. The most heartfelt time of the year is Holy Week, with its intense religious rites of Spanish tradition.
In short, Alghero is a hidden gem of Sardinia, with a unique mix of natural beauty, rich heritage and lively events.
