Cagliari (Cagliari)- a beautiful city with a thousand faces, with many corners that are interesting to discover and then never stop admiring them. Cagliari is sea, sun, culture, traditions, entertainment, sports, events and relaxation, full of unique experiences!
Cagliari- the capital, the main city in the most distinctive region of Italy. Today the island is loved by celebrities who are attracted by the warm sea, white beaches and relative privacy. However, it is not luxurious villas that make up the wealth of Sardinia, but its nature and unique historical heritage. Of course, progress has not spared this large island. But both the first glance and the dry statistics indicate that the local population is the least susceptible to modern trends.
Sardinia was under Spanish rule for quite a long time, and the influence of their culture is very noticeable, from the architecture and names to the traditional siesta, during which the city comes to a standstill.
How to get to Cagliari?
By plane
Cagliari is connected to the main European cities through Elmas International Airport, from which you can reach the city center by shuttle bus that stops at Piazza Matteotti, located between the port and the train station.
In addition, it is convenient to get from the airport by taxi or rent a car.
By sea
Cagliari is easily accessible from the port of Civitavecchia - Moby and Sardinia Ferries depart from here every two days. Ferries stop at and then a couple of hours later in the capital of Sardinia. Tickets can be purchased in a private cabin or in the general area (seated).
Ferries also operate from, and. You can cross with your own car, because... getting to Cagliari by car by land is not very convenient - there is no direct highway leading to Cagliari.
Where to stay in Cagliari?
T Hotel - Via dei Giudicati 66, 09131 Cagliari, Italy
The ultra-modern Hotel T is located in the center of Cagliari, opposite the Teatro Lirico opera house. It offers modern rooms, a stylish bar, free Wi-Fi throughout, and a wellness area with T Spa offering hydrotherapy treatments.
The bright, spacious air-conditioned rooms have wooden floors, a radio, satellite TV, a minibar and a modern bathroom.
A full English breakfast is served each morning. The hotel's bistro offers snacks and hot dishes for lunch, and the T Restaurant serves Italian and Sardinian cuisine for dinner. In the evenings, the bar features live piano music.
Guests at Hotel T will enjoy a modern gym, an Acqua Journey Spa with a hydrotherapy pool, steam baths and chromotherapy showers, and a relaxation area where you can enjoy herbal teas.
Cagliari Cathedral is 1.5 km from the hotel, and Cagliari-Elmas Airport is 10 km away. Poetto Beach is a 10-minute drive away.
Bastion of San Remy at night. Photo by Thinkstock
Hotel Nautilus - Lungomare Poetto 158, 09126 Cagliari, Italy
Hotel Nautilus is located in Cagliari. It overlooks Poetto Beach. It features a garden, bar and free WiFi in all areas.
Each room comes with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a minibar. They also have a private bathroom with shower, hairdryer, towels and free toiletries.
Hotel Nautilus is a 15-minute drive from Cagliari and 9 km from Quartu Sant'Elena.
Hotel Italia - Via Sardegna 31, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
The 3-star Hotel Italia is in the historic center of Cagliari, 50 meters from the port and a 10-minute walk from the train and bus stations. It offers soundproofed rooms with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
All hotel rooms were renovated in December 2012. Each has a private bathroom with bath or shower, a TV and a minibar. Guests can enjoy a rich buffet breakfast each morning, including pastries, fresh fruit, cheese and cold meats.
You can enjoy a drink at the bar and work out at the fitness centre.
The hotel area has excellent public transport links, allowing quick access to all areas of Cagliari. The hotel also has a bar and a meeting room.
Square in front of the Bastion of San Remy. Photo by Thinkstock
Hotel Flora - Via Sassari 47, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
The 4-star Hotel Flora is located in the center of Cagliari, just 800 meters from the harbour. It offers a traditional restaurant, free Wi-Fi and air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen satellite TV.
The classic-style rooms and suites feature parquet floors and a safe. Each room has a private bathroom with a hairdryer, free toiletries and slippers. Some rooms have a terrace or balcony.
A sweet and savory buffet breakfast is served every morning. For lunch and dinner, guests can dine at the Flora's à la carte restaurant, which specializes in traditional Sardinian cuisine, including fish dishes.
Hotel Flora is a 2-minute walk from Cagliari Train Station and 8 km from Cagliari-Elmas Airport. Poetto Beach is 10 minutes' drive away.
Sights of Cagliari
Piazza Palazzo: Cathedral of Santa Maria and Royal Palace
Palazzo Square, which has recently become pedestrianized, will show you real architectural wonders. On one side is the Cathedral of Santa Maria, an episcopal church built by combining different architectural styles, which preserves in its interior seven centuries of the city's historical memory. Next to the cathedral is the Royal Palace, the former residence of the Aragonese king and the rulers of the Savoy dynasty, now the building of the prefecture of the province of Cagliari. It is also worth taking time to visit the Archaeological Museum (one of the most important of Sardinia) and the former Town Hall, also located in the square.
Prefecture of Cagliari. Photo by Thinkstock
Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria)
The Cathedral of St. Mary is the seat of the Archbishopric of Cagliari, headed by the Metropolitan. The majestic 13th-century building is made in several styles typical of the city. The base was built as a Romanesque-Gothic church; four centuries later, during restoration, Baroque elements were added to it, and at the beginning of the 20th century, the façade was greatly changed by restoration in the style of the Pisan masters. The interior of the cathedral consists of three naves with a transept and side chapels. The vault of the central nave is decorated with paintings depicting the spread of Christianity in Sardinia.
Cathedral of St. Mary. Photo by Thinkstock
The city cathedral is located on Palace Square (Piazza Palazzo) and is ready to receive visitors from 8:30 to 12:30 and from 16:30 to 20:00 on weekdays and from 8:30 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 20: 00 on Saturday and Sunday.
National Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale)
The Cagliari Museum is the largest of all archaeological museums in Sardinia. It contains exhibits covering the period up to the end of the Roman Empire. It is worth highlighting the magnificent collection of bronzetti - bronze figurines unique to Sardinia from the Nuragic era. In the absence of any written evidence about the ancient inhabitants, these sculptures serve as the most important source of information about the ancient inhabitants of the island.
The Archaeological Museum is located on Arsenal Square (Piazza dell'Arsenale) and is open every day from 9:00 to 20:00. An adult ticket costs 4 euros, a discounted ticket costs 2 euros.
Church of St. Efisio (Chiesa di Sant "Efisio)
This building, unlike most of its kind, has a modest facade and ascetic interior, but every spring it becomes the center of the city's religious life. Saint Efisio is the city's patron saint, a former Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and lost his life for refusing to renounce his faith. According to legend, the church is located on the site of the dungeon in which the future saint was imprisoned.
Photo flickr.com
The church survived the attacks of the Napoleonic fleet at the end of the 18th century. In the wall under the image of the patron saint you can see a cannonball - one of many sent by the cannons of French ships. Every year, on May 1, Cagliari celebrates the Day of Sant'Efisio: the statue of the patron saint leaves its refuge on a sparkling carriage, decorated with gold leaf and gold stripes on the wheels, the replacement of which costs the municipality 20 thousand euros, and goes on a journey through the streets of the city, accompanied by a noisy crowds.
The doors of the ancient church are open to visitors from 9:00 to 13:00 and from 15:30 to 19:30 from Tuesday to Sunday.
City embankment
The promenade is of great importance for a port city. Cagliari is called Marina and is one of the most characteristic places filled with handicraft shops, souvenir shops and cozy cafes. On the embankment there is one of the most interesting churches in the city - the Church of St. Eulalia, combined with a museum.
City Fortress (Il Castello)
Snow-white walls with two well-preserved towers surrounded the city in the Middle Ages; today the fortifications are known as Il Castello, and the Sardinians themselves call them Su Casteddu. Be sure to look at the walls from afar - this is how they look especially monumental.
In the historical center of Cagliari, inside the fortress walls, the most important part of cultural objects is concentrated: the University, the Cathedral, museums and palaces. This area has been neglected for a long time, but in recent years it has been increasingly restored and is becoming a favorite place for strolling artists.
Photo by Thinkstock
Bastione di San Remy
Bastion of Saint-Rémy, built between 1896 and 1902. on the site of the old Spanish fortress walls, it carried out the task of connecting the old Castello quarter with the lower part of the city. The building got its name from Baron Saint-Rémy, the Piedmontese governor who built it. We advise you to first admire the view of the mighty bastion from below, from the Plaza de la Constitución, then climb the stairs to the top to the huge Umberto I terrace for breathtaking views of the city. At night the place buzzes with life, while exhibitions are often organized under the arcades of the enclosed bastion passage.
Photo by Thinkstock
The vast majority of excursions around Cagliari start from here: tourists have the opportunity to see the entire city, and the guide can visually familiarize them with a map of attractions.
Fortress of San Michele
The three-tower Spanish fortress of San Michele is located northwest of the central part of the city. It was built back in the 10th century and was renovated many times after that. The castle castle today is used to host temporary exhibitions, the cost of which is paid in addition to the entrance ticket price - 5 euros.
Castello San Michele. Photo by Thinkstock
You can get to the fortifications of San Michele by bus number 5, the final stop of which is on Baku Abis Street at the foot of the hill. The route follows a paved road 800 meters up the hill, and a bus leaves every 15 minutes during museum opening hours: from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 17:00 to 22:00 from Tuesday to Sunday.
Towers of San Pancrazio and Del Elefante (Le Torri di San Pancrazio e dell "Elefante)
Along with the bastion, Cagliari's two towers - San Pancrazio and Del Elefante - are the symbol of the city, marking the outskirts of the ancient Castello district. The towers were part of a fortified system built by Pisani in the fourteenth century. Renovated and restored to their original form, these two white limestone towers were built in 1305 and 1307 respectively as lookout points. The Tower of San Pancrazio is located at the northern entrance to the Castello district and was built on the highest point in the city. The tower has four floors and a height of over 36 meters. The Del Elefante Tower is lower - its height is 30 meters, and it is located in the southwestern part of the area. If you climb the towers you will be able to enjoy a fantastic view of Cagliari.
Ancient city walls. Photo by Thinkstock
Church of San Michele
Not far from the fortress described above there is a church also named after the Archangel Michael - one of the pearls of the historical district of Stampace. It was built in the 16th century, but is interesting for its rich Rococo style decoration, added two centuries later. After its construction, the Church of San Michele belonged to the Jesuits, and part of the accompanying buildings was used as a hospital, which later became a military hospital. Inside the building there is an ancient pulpit with four columns, from which the Spanish Emperor Charles V delivered a fiery speech before setting off on an unsuccessful campaign against Arab pirates.
Church of San Michele. Photo by Thinkstock
The address of the Church of San Michele is: Via Ospedale, 2. Visitors can explore this attraction from 8:00 to 11:00 and 18:00 to 21:00 from Monday to Saturday and from 8:30 to 12:00 and from 19:00 to 21:00 on Sunday.
Crypt of Santa Restituta
Almost next to the Church of St. Efisio there is a cave crypt, which was used for religious rites in pre-Christian times. The eerie atmosphere of this place is given by the constant echo of drops of water dripping from the vaults. In the 5th century, these caves became the refuge of Saint Restituta, mother of Saint Eusebius. These years became the starting point of early Christianity in Sardinia. The underground temple was used until the 13th century, after which it was abandoned.
Photo cagliari6.wikidot.com
In the 17th century, the Church of Saint Restituta was built near the crypt, which was used until the Second World War. During the war years, the crypt served as a bomb shelter, and the church fell into disrepair. Its restoration began only in recent years.
The crypt is located in the historic district of Stampace on Calle Sant'Efisio. You can visit it completely free of charge from 9:00 to 13:00 and from 15:30 to 19:30 from Tuesday to Sunday.
Church of St. Anna (Chiesa di Sant'Anna)
This church, which has collegiate status, is the largest in the Stampace area. It was built in the 18th century on the site of a smaller 13th-century parish. The building is decorated in Baroque style, with twin bell towers on both sides of the façade. The interior design is noticeably simpler than its more ancient neighbors, but the volume of internal space itself makes a strong impression.
The church is located on the Square of Saint Restituta and is open daily from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 17:00 to 19:00.
Poetto Beach (Spiagga di Poetto)
The six-kilometer Poetto beach is the longest in all of Italy and is an integral part of the life of every city dweller. In summer, life is in full swing here: a festive atmosphere reigns everywhere, restaurants, bars and discos are open. The southern berth of the beach is especially busy, which, by analogy with the central embankment, is called the Little Marina (Marina Piccola). In July and August, in addition to the yacht club, there is an open-air cinema.
Photo by Thinkstock
Temple of Our Lady of Bonaria Square (Santuario di Nostra Signora di Bonaria)
In the fourteenth century, Alfonso of Aragon built a small church in the Gothic Catalan style dedicated to the Holy Trinity and the Virgin Mary on the Bonaria hill after his victory over Niccolò Pisani. The story goes that on March 25, 1370, a mysterious box was found on the beach in front of the church, thrown into the sea by a Spanish sailing ship during a storm. The monks, to whose order the church was donated, managed to lift it and bring it to the cathedral; inside they found a statue of the Madonna and Child holding a burning candle. From then on, the Church of Our Lady of Bonaria became a place of worship for pilgrims, and a much larger temple was built to house the statue, construction of which lasted from 1704 to 1926. The Temple of Our Lady of Bonaria is the largest temple in Sardinia. Be sure to visit it and check out the works of art stored inside.
Photo by Thinkstock
The sanctuary is open to the public from 6:30 to 11:30 and from 17:30 to 19:30 from April to October and from 6:30 to 11:30 and from 16:30 to 18:30 from November to March.
Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico)
The Botanical Garden of Cagliari is one of the most famous in Italy. It was created in the 18th-19th centuries on the site of a former landfill. By the beginning of the 20th century, 400 species of plants from all over the world settled on 5 hectares; today there are more than 1000 of them.
The botanical garden is located on Viale Sant'Ignazio and is open from 8:30 to 19:30 from Monday to Saturday and from 8:30 to 13:30 on Sunday from April to October, and from 8: 30 to 13:30 from Monday to Saturday from November to March. Entrance fee is 2 euros.
Royal/Viceregal Palace (Palazzo Reale/Viceregio)
The color of the facade of the Royal Palace of Cagliari is best described as "pale", but this building was once the residence of the Spanish kings of the Savoy dynasty, and today it houses the provincial government, and all kinds of concerts are held during the summer season.
The Royal Palace is located in Piazza Palazzo Il Castello and is usually closed to the public. Access is only possible during concerts and upon prior request for organized tour groups. The entrance ticket costs 5 euros.
Basilica of San Saturnino
This basilica is the oldest of the city's churches. It is located in the Villanova region and is one of the most important early Christian sites in Sardinia. The church was erected in the 5th century on the burial site of the Roman Saturnino, who was seen here in 304 and later canonized. Next to the basilica there is an ancient cemetery.
Photo: comune.cagliari.it
The ancient church is located on St. Cosima Square, and access to it is limited due to the lengthy restoration of the building itself and its surroundings.
Roman amphitheater (Anfiteatro romano)
The most impressive monument of Cagliari both in age (2nd century) and in scale. Although much of the structure was dismantled to be used as building material for later buildings, it is still quite recognizable and popular among antique enthusiasts. Over the millennia of history, the high stands turned out to be half immersed in the rock; in their heyday, they accommodated 10 thousand spectators, i.e. a third of the entire Roman colony. During the summer months, the restored amphitheater stage hosts singers and musicians.
Roman amphitheater. Photo by Thinkstock
The ancient arena is located on the Viale Sant'Ignazio. It is open to the public from 9:30 to 13:30 from Tuesday to Saturday and from 9:30 to 13:30 and from 15:30 to 17:30 on Sunday from April to October, and from 9:30 to 13:30 from Tuesday to Saturday and from 10:00 to 13:00 on Sunday from November to March.
The cost of a full ticket is 4.3 euros, for students and pensioners - 2.8 euros, for schoolchildren and organized groups - 2.2 euros, for children under 6 years old - free.
Marina Quarter
Marina di Cagliari is one of the historical areas of the city, where, long ago, there were shops and homes of those who worked in the nearby port. Today it is a shopping area with fashionable shops, clubs and many restaurants where you can taste Cagliari and Sardinian cuisine. Take a stroll in the port, at sunset if possible, and then stroll under the arcades of Via Roma, explore the narrow streets of the Marina - and you will enter a world that will give you many pleasant surprises.
Colle di Monte Urpini
The hill dominating the neighborhood of the same name is one of the most beautiful green areas of the city center, a wonderful park where you can relax and spend time among shady green trees and flowers. From here you have beautiful views of the city, the sea and Poetto Beach, as well as the ponds of the Molentargius Park. Want some advice? Admire the view of Cagliari at sunset and you will be amazed!
Molentargius Park
The Molentardgius Park is approximately 1,600 hectares in length and is located in a wetland area. It is a natural habitat for numerous waterfowl and various species of animals, which is very surprising because the park is located a few steps from the center of Cagliari.
In the park you can admire the magnificent colony of pink flamingos, now a real symbol of the city, and, among other things, Molentardgius Park is simply a magnificent place for walking and cycling among greenery and silence.
Pink flamingos in Molentardgius Park. Photo by Thinkstock
Route Calamosca - Sella del Diavolo
This short and easy route allows you to enjoy breathtaking views and see places of high naturalistic and historical-archaeological interest. Just follow the beautiful path that will take you to the Sella del Diavolo, a real pearl of the Gulf of Cagliari, overlooking Poetto beach. Start your walk from the town square, which is located by Kalamoska beach, and as you walk you will be able to see beautiful places, the turquoise sea and incredible views of the bay. You will also encounter the remains of a World War II fortress and the Tower of St. Elijah.
Where to eat in Cagliari?
The typical dishes of this province of Sardinia are strongly influenced by Genoese and Catalan cuisine and consist primarily of seafood prepared in various ways.
Among the recipes of this land, we recommend trying fregula cun cocciula - a type of couscous with shellfish, cocciula e cozzas a schiscionera - a dish of clams and mussels stuffed with olive oil, garlic, parsley and breadcrumbs, fish soup sa cassola prepared with mullet caviar and tuna, lobster "Campidanese", catfish with sauce "sa burrida" and fried fish with spicy sweet and sour sauce, "scabbecciu".
Among the first courses - pasta - the most famous are su mazzamurru, pasta with tomatoes and grated bread, Sardinian dumplings malloreddus, seasoned with vegetables and saffron, and impanadas, a typical Catalan dish with vegetables and stuffed meat.
Although fish always dominates the table in Sardinia, there is no shortage of meat dishes in Cagliari restaurants, such as lamb ragout or the famous roast suckling pig "porceddu".
Among the sweets, we note pardulas, a cheese-based sweet, candelaus, with almond flour and a spicy aroma of orange, fried ravioli seadas, covered with honey and raisins, and raisin cookies, pabassinas.
Cagliari has no shortage of wines - try Nuragus, Nasco, Malvasia, Giro, Monica and Moscato.
Let's take a look at some of the Cagliari restaurants where you can try traditional dishes:
Trattoria Gennargentu
The historic trattoria Gennargentu is located in Via Sardena, 60, where you can taste the best of Sardinian cuisine, such as fish soup, maccaruin with mussels, zucchini and saffron, cassulli with artichokes and bottarga.
Restaurant Dal Corsaro
An elegant family restaurant serving regional Sardinian cuisine is located at Viale Regina Margherita, 28.
Manamanà Restaurant
In Piazzetta Savoia there is Restaurant Manamana, an intelligent restaurant where, especially in the summer, you can enjoy dinner while listening to jazz concerts.
Restaurant Flora
In a historic building at 45 Via Sassari, you can find this traditional folk restaurant where you can sample popular Sardinian dishes and wines.
Holidays Cagliari
Cagliari is a city that has united under one roof the traditions of numerous cultures, which for centuries have influenced the formation of the way of life of the local population. This priceless heritage of their ancestors continues to be jealously guarded by modern Sardis. Throughout the year, Cagliari hosts many interesting and colorful celebrations, the most famous and unforgettable of which are Sardinia Day and the Feast of Sant'Efisio. Let's tell you more about them
April 28 - Sa Die de Sa Sardigna (Sardinia Day)
Since 1993, every April 28th the people of Cagliari celebrate "Sa Die de Sa Sardigna", better known as the national holiday of Sardinia.
The holiday commemorates the historical event that occurred on April 28, 1794, when the uprising of the Sardinian population ended with the expulsion of Viceroy Balbiano and the liberation of the island from Piedmontese rule.
The festival commemorates this event by offering an extremely interesting historical re-enactment. You'll see famous historical figures in eighteenth-century wigs and costumes, as well as battles and scenes representing the exile of the Savoy ruler unfold before your eyes throughout the day.
"Sa Die de Sa Sardigna" ends late in the evening with a grand concert and folk music shows. Recently the festival has been expanded and now lasts for several days. At the same time, holidays are held in other municipalities - Sanluri, Nakao, Barisardo and Tempio.
May 1-4 - Feast of Saint Efisio
This religious holiday has been celebrated in Sardinia for over 350 years. The holiday is dedicated to the patron saint of Cagliari, Sant'Efisio. During his lifetime, Efisio was a simple Roman legionary, who in 305 suffered martyrdom, refusing to renounce the Christian faith and kill its followers. Dying, Efisio asked the sky for protection for his city from all misfortunes. Several centuries later, Efisio was canonized, and when the plague struck Cagliari in 1656, the city's residents turned to Sant'Efisio with prayer and a vow to organize a memorial ritual in honor of the saint. Sant'Efisio, according to legend, heeded the pleas of the people, who, in turn, fulfilled his promise. Since then, for four days in the spring, Cagliari is immersed in a festive atmosphere, and devoted believers hold torchlight processions in honor of Sant'Efisio.
Feast of Sant'Efisio. Photo by Thinkstock
The procession passes through the central streets of the city, it is attended by local residents dressed in national costumes, all of them carrying torches in their hands, and the long procession ends with a gilded chariot with a statue of the saint. The statue of Sant'Efisio is transported to the basilica of the city of Nora, to the place of the saint's execution.
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A settlement on the site of the modern city of Cagliari has existed since ancient times. A place in the south of the island of Sardinia, located between a sea bay and a fertile plain, turned out to be convenient for settlement. In the 8th century BC. e. The Phoenicians founded a colony on this site, which was named Karalis. The name of the settlement comes from the Phoenician expression "Kar Vaalis", which means "City of Baal". At the end of the 6th century BC. e. the settlement came into the possession of the Carthaginian Republic. In 238 BC. e. The Romans captured Sardinia. During the Second Punic War (218-201 BC), Caralis was the residence of the Roman commander Titus Manlius, who led operations from there against the Carthaginian commander Hampsicore.
During the Civil War in Rome (49-45 BC), the inhabitants of Caralis initially sided with Pompey the Great against Caesar, but later switched to the latter’s side. When in 40 BC. e., during the war of Antony and Octavian against the Pompeians, the naval commander Sextus Pompey Menas landed in Sardinia, the city resisted him. However, after a short siege, Karalis was occupied by Menas.
After the Civil Wars, Caralis became the main city of Sardinia, it received the status of a municipality, and its inhabitants received the rights of free Roman citizens. The Romans changed the layout of the city to a rectangular one, built a water supply system, squares and paved roads in Caralis.
In the middle of the 5th century, Sardinia was conquered by the Vandals. In 532, the troops of Emperor Justinian annexed the island to the Eastern Roman Empire. The city received a Hellenized name Kalaris and became the residence of the Byzantine governor of Sardinia.
Judicate of Cagliari
In the middle of the 9th century, Byzantium lost power over Sardinia. Four independent communities appeared on the island, from north to south - Gallura, Logudoro, Arborea and Calaris, or Cagliari. The communities were headed by judges. For the first time, information about these communities appears in the charter of Pope Leo IV dated 851. The city of Cagliari itself is in decline. Some of the inhabitants left the city, founding the settlement of Santa Igia west of Cagliari, which was destroyed in 1257 by the Pisans. In the 11th century, Sardinia was regularly raided by the Arabs who ruled the northern coast of Africa.
XI-XIII centuries
During the Middle Ages, Cagliari was located on a busy maritime trade route between the Italian city-states and Arab Africa. Therefore, in the 13th century, a struggle began for the possession of this city between the Genoese and Pisan trading republics. In 1258, Pisa gained the upper hand, establishing its authority over the city. Pisan engineers changed the appearance of the city by building powerful fortress walls around the central quarters of Marina, Stampace and Villanova. Even earlier, the Pisans built a fortress in the center of Cagliari. Since then, in the Sardinian language, the city of Cagliari received the name Casteddo, that is, castle. Of course, an important seaport on the route between Italy and Africa needed to be protected. To strengthen the fortress, the Tower of San Pancrazio was built in 1305, and in 1307 the Tower of the Elephant (“del Elefante”) was built. The reason for such a rapid construction of fortifications in Cagliari was the claims of the Aragonese. Back in 1297, Pope Boniface VIII gave Sardinia and Corsica as a gift to King Jaime II of Aragon (1291-1327). Of course, the pope himself did not own these territories; nevertheless, he considered himself entitled to make such political gifts. In 1323, the Aragonese gathered a fleet and landed in Sardinia. The peace treaty signed in 1324 brought an end to the era of Pisan rule, Sardinia came under the rule of the Kingdom of Aragon. Cagliari became the capital of the Viceroyalty of Sardinia within Aragon.
XIV-XVII centuries
The new masters abolished the laws of the Pisans and began to introduce new orders. Soon all government positions in Sardinia were occupied by people from Aragon, Catalonia and Mallorca. In 1328, a law was passed according to which the Sardinians were expelled from the fortress of Cagliari, and henceforth the local residents had no right to live there. King Pedro IV Ceremonial (1336-1387) created a parliament in Cagliari modeled on the Barcelona one. It could include representatives of three classes: knighthood, clergy and the “nobility of the mantle” (royal officials). In reality, this parliament had no real power; Sardinia was largely ruled by the king of Aragon himself. At the end of the 15th century, the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon united into one state - Spain, which also received Sardinia as a dowry. After the discovery of America in 1492, the main trade sea routes headed to the New World, and Cagliari's importance as a trading port began to wane.
XVIII century
In 1701, the War of the Spanish Succession broke out in Europe. This war pitted France and Bavaria against the Holy Roman Empire, the German nation, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and the Duchy of Savoy. In fact, the dispute was over which royal family would rule in Spain, the French Bourbon dynasty or the Austrian Habsburg dynasty, which ruled the Holy Roman Empire. During this war, the possessions of the Spanish crown were at stake. Two groups formed in Cagliari: one supported the Habsburgs, the other supported the Bourbons. In August 1708, the Anglo-Dutch fleet bombarded the city, after which the British occupied Cagliari without resistance. Under the terms of the Peace of Utrecht in 1713, Sardinia passed into the hands of the Austrians. Their rule lasted until 1717, when the Spanish Minister of State, Cardinal Alberoni, sent a fleet to the shores of Sardinia. The new conquest of Sardinia by the Spaniards continued until August 2, 1718, when the Treaty of London was concluded. According to its terms, Sardinia was transferred to the Habsburg ally, the Savoy Duke Victor Amadeus II. Having united into a single whole, Savoy, Piedmont and Sardinia formed a kingdom. Officially it was called Sardinian, but it was often called Piedmont, since this region was the most developed among the possessions of the House of Savoy. On paper, the capital of the kingdom was the city of Cagliari, but in reality the royal court and parliament were located in Turin, the capital of Piedmont.
In 1789, a revolution occurred in France. Among the residents of Cagliari there were many like-minded French revolutionaries, but the majority of residents of Cagliari and all of Sardinia were skeptical about revolutionary changes, and the church, traditionally revered in Sardinia, actively spread anti-French sentiment. When the French landing under the command of Admiral Tryge landed on February 28, 1793 in Cuartu (a settlement near Cagliari), the Sardinian militia under the command of Girolamo Pitzolo were already waiting for the French. A battle took place on the field of San Bartolomeo, during which the Sardinians overpowered the French and forced them to leave the island. This victory stirred up the patriotic feelings of local residents. In 1794, representatives of the estates of Sardinia met with the King of Piedmont, Victor Amadeus III (1773-1796), demanding that he include representatives from Sardinia in the Turin Parliament. The parties failed to reach an agreement. On April 28, 1794, the Anti-Piedmontese uprising began in Cagliari. On this day, local residents arrested all the Piedmontese who were in the city, escorted them to the ship and forced them to leave the island. Since then, every last weekend in April, the island's inhabitants celebrate "Sardinia Day" in memory of this uprising. Soon the Piedmontese government regained control of Sardinia, sending a new viceroy, Marquis Filippo Vivalda, to suppress the uprising.
On December 8, 1798, the new king of Piedmont, Charles Emmanuel IV (1796-1802), fled his country to Livorno from the revolutionary French army that had captured northern Italy. The Assembly of the Estates of Sardinia sent three representatives to meet with the king, who suggested that he move to Cagliari, where he would not have to fear an attack by the French army. The king agreed to the proposal of the estates, and on March 3, 1799, the august family arrived in the capital of Sardinia.
New and Contemporary times
In 1802, Charles Emmanuel IV abdicated the throne in favor of his middle brother, Victor Emmanuel I (1802-1821), and transferred power on the island of Sardinia to his younger brother Charles Felix. Under him, the inhabitants of Sardinia suffered from a lack of food. In 1812, famine began in Cagliari. In 1814, after Napoleon's defeat, Victor Emmanuel I was able to return to Turin. He transferred power in Sardinia to his wife Maria Theresa. However, a year later, Victor Emmanuel I handed over the reins of government in Cagliari to his brother Charles Felix. His statue stands today in Cagliari, in Piazza Yenne. After the abdication of Victor Emmanuel I, Charles Felix became King of Piedmont (1821-1831).
In 1847, the General Council of Cagliari appealed to King Charles Albert of Savoy (1831-1849) with a request to incorporate the Sardinians into Italy and grant the citizens of Sardinia the rights of continental inhabitants of the country. Then the king signed the Unification Act in Genoa, according to which customs barriers were abolished for Sardinia, the civil and criminal code of Piedmont was extended to the territory of the island, and the title of Viceroy of Sardinia was declared abolished. During the unification of Italy (1859-1870), Sardinia became part of a single kingdom.
Story
When applied to Cagliari, the epithet “ancient” cannot be called an exaggeration - the first settlement here arose almost three thousand years ago. The Phoenicians chose the place to live wisely: on one side there was the seashore, on the other there was a plain with fertile soil where they would engage in farming, and the path of a possible enemy was blocked by two swamps. In addition, in case of danger, the green mountains provided shelter.
It is not surprising that in subsequent centuries, various rulers tried to subjugate such a conveniently located point. In the 3rd century BC. e. Caralis (as it was then called) was captured by the Romans, and six hundred years later they were replaced by the Vandals (a union of Germanic tribes). Afterwards, the city became the center of the kingdom of Giudicato di Cagliari, but this state entity could not withstand the onslaught of stronger neighbors. In 1215, the heir to the patricians of Pisa, Lamberto Visconti, founded the fortress of Castel di Castro on one of the hills he captured. The remains of its fortifications have survived to this day.
From the 14th to the second half of the 19th century, here was the capital of the Sardinian kingdom, headed by representatives of the Aragonese and later Savoy dynasties. However, Cagliari truly grew only with the entry of this territory into the united Italy, which is why there are so many buildings in the Art Nouveau style characteristic of this state.
Cagliari beach
They began to actively develop tourism in Sardinia only in the twentieth century, but today its resorts are not inferior in popularity to other European ones. The city on the shores of the Bay of Angels is ready to offer a lot of interesting things to all its guests, regardless of their personal preferences.
A busy schedule of work or study has completely deprived you of energy, and all you can dream about is recharging your own solar batteries, enjoying the sea air and the whisper of the waves? The city beach of Poetto in Cagliari is eight kilometers of white sand, and it definitely won’t be crowded here. In addition, the entry into the bright turquoise water is quite smooth, which, of course, will please families with children and simply unsure swimmers who are afraid of unpredictable depths. The area is clean and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay: sun loungers and umbrellas, changing rooms, public toilets, rental of water sports equipment... There is even a disco and a small open-air cinema!
Getting here from the center of Cagliari is not difficult - use the municipal bus that runs along the appropriate route. Just keep in mind that due to the long distance, there is not one stop by the sea, but six. The most impatient people get off next to via Marina Piccola, because the first section (the locals call them fermata) is much more crowded than the middle of the coast.
From the western part of the beach you can see one of the natural attractions of these places - the salt marshes of the Molentarjus Regional Park, where beautiful pink flamingos live. By the way, the park is open to the public, and you have the chance to watch storks, cormorants, herons and other migratory birds in their natural habitat (daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time). Entrance to the reserve is free.
Sights of Cagliari
If you prefer not to give free rein to your own laziness and try to alternate hours of pleasant relaxation with new experiences, you won’t have to go far. As mentioned above, the history of Cagliari goes back thousands of years, so there is a lot to see here.
The fortress of St. Michael was built in the 10th century as a defensive structure; during the plague epidemic seven hundred years later, it served the unenviable function of an isolation ward for the sick, and then was completely empty. After reconstruction, it received the status of a museum, and not only as an architectural monument - it regularly hosts various exhibitions. A ticket to see the Castello di San Michele will cost you 5 euros (visiting the exhibitions costs extra), but even a budget traveler should take a bus ride to the foot of the hill to admire the ancient walls and the beautiful panorama of the city of Cagliari from its top.
It costs 4 euros to visit the Roman amphitheater, which was completely carved out of limestone rock in the 2nd century and could accommodate 10,000 spectators. Restoration work has made it possible to still hold concerts and performances on this “summer site.”
The current Basilica of St. Saturnin is three centuries younger. The great martyr, killed for refusing to worship a pagan deity, is considered the patron saint of the city, and his sarcophagus is kept in another iconic temple for Cagliari - the Cathedral of St. Mary. The latter is now the official residence of the metropolitan and archbishop. The building, erected in the 13th century, was repeatedly repaired and updated, so its current condition is pleasantly surprising. The internal vaults create special acoustics, and on Saturday evenings you can fully experience this by attending a concert of classical or religious music.
Nearby stands the Saint-Rémy bastion, once part of the fortifications, which at various times was a banquet hall, a first-aid post, and a shelter for residents left homeless after air raids of World War II. Recently, art exhibitions have been held in the covered passage of the Bastione di San Remy.
Want something even more ancient? Be sure to visit the Archaeological Museum of Cagliari. Among its exhibits there are even artifacts from the Bronze Age - the ancient Sardis successfully processed soft metals and left behind many figurines depicting people and gods. In the same building on Piazza Arsenale is the National Art Gallery, whose collection includes works from the Middle Ages and Baroque eras.
A few words for gourmets
But all this is spiritual food. But what about more mundane things? Hungry tourists will be happy to be fed in any cafe, restaurant or trattoria; fortunately, there are plenty of them in the city, and the quality of the dishes served is at a high level. Conservatives can limit themselves to familiar pasta and pizza, but those who consider it their duty to get acquainted with local cuisine will have a rich choice. The region's specialties most often have something to do with the sea. In Cagliari, the menu usually includes: octopus salad, shellfish soups, bottarga (dried tuna or mullet caviar) with artichokes, cuttlefish and grilled fish. But the diet is not limited to the fishermen’s catch; try a pig roasted on a spit and seasoned with myrtle leaves, sausages prepared according to ancient recipes, thin “shepherd’s bread” carasau, panadas pies with various fillings and macaroons with grape syrup.
And, of course, unique local cheeses and a glass of suitable wine will help you experience the true taste of Sardinia.
Cagliari hotel deals
How to get there
Cagliari has an international airport, so you don't have to book an expensive personal transfer or search for a bus station after landing. Choose a flight that is convenient for you using our website - and enjoy your holiday in Italy!
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One of these attractions is the Castello di San Michele, which means the Fortress of St. Michael, which was built back in the tenth century and for a long time played the role of a defensive structure of the city. In the 17th century, during the plague epidemic in Cagliari, the fortress and its territory were used as an isolation ward for the treatment of the infected, after which the territory was abandoned and not used for a long period of time. Currently, the fortress has the status of a museum, and also hosts various exhibitions and temporary exhibitions. The castle is located on a hill with a beautiful view of the city. To get to the fortress on your own, you need to take bus number 5 and get to the final stop, which is located at the foot of the fortress hill. St. Michael's Fortress is open every day except Monday from ten in the morning to ten in the evening. The visit is paid and costs five euros. If during your visit another exhibition will be held on the territory, then in addition to the entrance price you will have to pay the cost of visiting the exhibition.
Another interesting structure is the Roman Amphitheater, which dates back to the second century AD. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that the stands and premises are not built, but carved into the limestone rock.
This amphitheater could accommodate up to 10,000 people. Currently, the stands and arena are reinforced with metal structures, which allows for various concerts and performances to be held during the summer season. A visit to the amphitheater is paid and costs four euros for adults, two for students and schoolchildren. In summer, opening hours are from 9.30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., in winter from 9.30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Day off is Monday. The amphitheater Viale Sant Ignazio is located, Avenue Saint Ignatius.Basilica di San Saturnino or in Russian the Basilica of Saint Saturninus is considered the oldest church in Cagliari and was built in the fifth century on the burial site of Saint Saturninus, who was killed during the reign of Emperor Diocletian for refusing to worship Jupiter.
This was in 304 AD. Subsequently, Saturninus was canonized and is currently revered as the patron saint of Cagliari. Every year October 30 is celebrated in the city as a day of remembrance. The sarcophagus of Saint Saturninus is now in the Cathedral of Saint Mary in Cagliari. Currently, after almost 18 years of restoration, the church is again open to parishioners. 
The basilica is located at the foot of Bonaria Hill, which is located on St. Cosmas Square.Cripta di Santa Restituta is of no less interest. This is the crypt of Saint Restituta, which is located in a cave that became a refuge for the mother of Saint Eusebius, Restituta in the fifth century AD.
The caves served as a temple until the 13th century, then they were not used for a long time and only in the 17th century the Church of Saint Restituta was built over them. Local residents used the crypt as a bomb shelter during the war. The church is open from 9 am to 7.30 pm, except Mondays and admission is free. The crypt and church are located on St. Efisio Street in the Stampace district.One cannot fail to note the beauty and grandeur of the Cathedral of St. Mary (Cattedrale di Santa Maria), which is currently the seat of the Metropolitan and Archbishopric of Cagliari. Built in the 13th century and over the next four centuries it was reconstructed with the addition of various elements.
The building is perfectly preserved, and thanks to its unique acoustics, on Saturdays after 20.30 pm the cathedral hosts concerts of religious and classical music. The cathedral is open from 8.30 am to 20.00 pm, every day except Monday. The temple is located on Palace Square in the upper Castello district. In the same area is the Bastione di San Remy, the bastion of San Remy. It was built relatively recently, at the end of the 19th century, but it was a very important fortification structure of the city, as it connected the bastions of Zecca, Santa Caterina and Sperone. 
The basis for its construction was the old fortress walls, which were built back in the 14th century. The covered passageway of the bastion was used in various ways, as a banquet hall, then as a medical center, and during the Second World War it housed local residents whose houses were destroyed by bomb attacks. After the restoration, art exhibitions began to be held here. 
This building is located on Constitution Square.An interesting legend was the reason for the construction of the Church of Our Lady in Bonaria Square, Santuario di Nostra Signora di Bonaria. The sailors of one of the ships, in order not to die during the storm, began to lighten the ship, throwing boxes with cargo overboard. Suddenly the storm calmed down, and in one of the boxes with cargo that was washed ashore by the waves, a statue of the Virgin Mary with little Jesus in her arms was discovered. After these events, the statue of the Virgin Mary began to be revered in Sardinia as the patroness of sailors and protector of the island. Now this statue is located in the Church of Our Lady in Cagliari and is an object of pilgrimage for believers from around the world. So if you find yourself in Cagliari, do not miss the opportunity to pray to this miraculous statue.
The temple is open in summer from 6.30 am to 7.30 pm, and in winter from 6.30 am to 6.30 pm. As I already said, the temple is located on Bonaria Square, which is located at the top of the hill of the same name.And there are quite a few churches that deserve attention in Cagliari besides those that I have talked about. For a closer acquaintance with the history of the city and the island, you can visit the Archaeological Museum, which displays on three floors exhibits found in Sardinia and dating back to the sixth century BC. The museum is located in Piazza Arsenale, Arsenal Square in the upper Castello district.
Entry to the museum costs 2 euros for children and 4 euros for adults. Opening hours from 9.00 to 20.00 pm.Here is a small part of the attractions that you can visit during your stay in Sardinia, namely in Cagliari. I think that this information interested you.
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The capital of the island of Sardinia is the ancient and very original city of Cagliari, which in recent years has become a very popular resort. More and more celebrities and others are visiting this wonderful island. They are attracted by the unique climate, magnificent beaches, luxury hotels and villas, and, of course, a huge number of local attractions.
Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria).
St. Mary's Church is the seat of the local metropolitan. This ancient building, whose construction began in the 12th century, is one of the ten main attractions not only of the city, but also of the island. Over the course of four centuries, the building was constantly completed and rebuilt, as a result of which the current appearance of the temple is a marvelous mixture of Gothic and Baroque styles. Although the appearance of the cathedral only benefited from this. Entrance to the interior of the cathedral is completely free, so be sure to enjoy the paintings of famous artists. Especially good are the “Triptych of Clement VII”, the author of which is the Fleming Rogier van der Weyden and the “Sanctuary of the Martyrs”, the staircase of the presbytery with four sculptures of lions erected in the Romanesque era - a polyptych of the 12th century, sculptor Michele Cavaro. The address of this cathedral is Via del Fossario, 09124 Cagliari.
Fortress of San Michele
This fortress, consisting of three towers built by the Spaniards (the island was under their yoke for almost 400 years), is located on one of the many hills of the city. This fortification was built in the 10th century and served its defensive functions for many years. The fortress is a square structure surrounded by a moat filled with water. After the conquerors left, the castle housed a hospital for the treatment of a terrible disease - the plague. In our time, the fortress has been restored and now all kinds of cultural events are held here under the patronage of the city. The address where this building is located: Via Sirai, 09121 Cagliari, Italia. By paying 5 euros for the entrance ticket (children are free), you will not only get acquainted with the history, but also be able to admire the wonderful panorama that opens before you.
Basilica of San Saturnino.
The first mention of this religious building dates back to the beginning of the 6th century, so this church is rightfully considered the oldest temple in Italy. On its territory there is an ancient necropolis, where archaeologists are still conducting excavations. The magnificent facade of the church (Baroque style) is decorated with numerous columns and sculptures, considered works of art. Inside the temple you can take a closer look at magnificent examples of early Christian art. Over its long history, the church has been rebuilt more than once, so a very small part of it has been preserved from its original state, made in the form of a Greek cross with a hemispherical dome. And yet, it is always crowded here due to numerous tourists. Address where you can find the basilica: Piazza San Cosimo Cagliari, Italia. The entrance is free.
Church of the Holy Sepulcher (Chiesa di San Sepolcro)
This temple is located in the historical district of the city. Many researchers believe that it was founded in the 16th century by the secret order of the Templars, whose main task was to provide assistance in the burial of the poor.
The temple consists of a nave and two chapels on either side. The undoubted pride of the church is the chapel of Our Lady of Mercy, made in the Baroque style. Here, you will see a gilded altar on which the Madonna and Child are depicted. All the walls of the chapel are hung with ancient religious paintings, which are of both historical and material value. Another interesting object worthy of your close attention is the burial room, in which burials were carried out until the mid-19th century. I would also like you to pay attention to the Lady Death depicted on the ceiling of the room located in the center of the chapel, wearing an ermine fur coat, wearing a crown on her head, and holding a braid in her hands (her integral attribute).
Roman amphitheater (Anfiteatro romano)
Another pride of the residents of Cagliari, of course, is the amphitheater, where world-famous gladiator fights were held.
The huge niche of this ancient Roman theater is carved right into the rock. The age of this grandiose structure is almost 2,000 years, and, looking at it, it seems that it will stand for the same amount of time. Although, if we are to be objective, then we must point out that the greatness, of course, has diminished, and the plastic chairs for tourists do not really harmonize with everything else. However, such little things do not interfere with enjoying this creation of human hands, the size of which is amazing. The area of the theater is about 6 thousand square meters. km, and the number of seats is at least 10 thousand. After a huge number of years, the theater, however, still continues to perform its main functions. All kinds of musical events of various types are held here, including concerts and performances. There is a historical museum on the territory of the amphitheater. To get into the theater you will have to pay 4.3 euros, and for children under 6 years old admission is free.
Archaeological Museum (Museo archeologico nazionale di Cagliari)
The address of the city's main museum is: Piazza Arsenale, 09124 Cagliari. The museum is a large three-story building. The most ancient exhibits are displayed on the ground floor, some are up to 6,000 years old. The second floor is represented by ancient times. Here you can see a huge collection of bronze figurines. On the third floor, you will see a collection of things belonging to the Roman Empire, including jewelry, gold and numerous offerings to the emperor.
Poetto Beach
The city's 6 km of sandy coastline delights tourists and, of course, local residents. Thanks to the warm, mild climate, the swimming season here lasts from May to the end of October. So, when going to Cagliari, don't forget about your swimwear.
Cagliari is a beautiful city with a thousand faces, with many secrets and legends, picturesque views and interesting places. This city is good both in summer and winter. Cagliari has almost 3 thousand years of history, sea, sun, traditions, great food, nightclubs, music festivals, sports and much more. This is a city that really has something to do. We offer a list of must-see places in Cagliari.
Bastion San Remy
The Bastion of Saint-Rémy was built between 1896 and 1902 on the site of the Spanish walls in order to connect the medieval Castello quarter located on the hill with the lower city. We recommend that you first admire the luxurious façade from below, from Piazza Costutzione, and then climb the elegant staircase to the large panoramic terrace of Umberto I, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the sea. In the evening, artists and ceramists exhibit their works on the Bastion; here you can find the most interesting souvenirs. And at the height of the season, musicians also gather at Bastion; jazz festivals and traditional music concerts are held here. Cagliaritans, heirs of Roman patricians, Spanish grandees and Savoyard aristocrats, value the comfort, beauty and pleasures of life. They love to meet in beautiful places with friends for an aperitif. Bastion is home to several fashionable Cagliari establishments, one of them is the iconic Caffe degli Spiriti. At sunset, sometimes you can watch from its soft sofas how pink flamingos fly over the rooftops of the evening city from one lake to another. Just a fantastic dream!Piazza Palazzio, Cathedral of Saint Mary
Having recently become pedestrianized, Piazza Palazzio, or Palace Square, offers visitors to the city a whole constellation of wonders. The dominant building is St. Mary's Cathedral, which, in a combination of different styles, preserves eight centuries of the city's historical memory. Next to it are the Royal Palace, formerly the residence of a representative of the Aragonese, Spanish and Piedmontese Royal Court, and now the Prefecture of Cagliari, and the former City Palace, in other words, the Municipality, which was only moved to the embankment at the beginning of the 20th century.The magnificent interior decoration of the Cathedral, replete with marble of all colors and shades, leaves no one indifferent. But there are a few details here that we would like to pay special attention to. First of all, this is a unique marble pulpit of the 12th century, specially transported by sea from Pisa at the turn of the 13th century to support the morale of compatriots awaiting the advance of the Aragonese army. Handcrafted marble carvings depict several recognizable biblical scenes. In the famous crypt of the Cathedral, built in the 17th century under the altar, there are 179 niches in which the relics of the martyrs of the Catholic Church are collected. Finally, the most important holy relic is kept in the Cathedral - the Thorn from the Crown of Thorns of Christ. You can see this relic during the most important Christian holidays.
Since December 2011, next to the Cagliari Cathedral, in the former Church of Nostra Signora della Speranza of the 16th century, the Orthodox parish of Saint Sava the Sanctified has been opened.Towers of San Pancrazio and Elefante (Elephant Tower)
Together with the Bastion and the Cathedral, the two towers - San Pancrazio and Elefante (Elephant Tower) - are the symbol of Cagliari and define the silhouette of the ancient Castello quarter. Two observation towers made of white limestone were built in 1305 and 1307 respectively as part of the fortification system erected by the Pisans. The 36-meter-high San Pancrazio Tower guards the northern entrance to the Castello and is built at the highest point in the city (130 meters above sea level). Located in the southwestern part of the Castello, the 30-meter Torre di Elefante is indeed decorated with a small cute stone elephant, preserved from the time the tower was built, as well as a wrought iron gate. If you are not afraid of heights, we definitely recommend climbing both towers. Believe me, the fantastic views are worth the effort of climbing 120 steps!
Archaeological Museum of Cagliari. Giants of Monte Prama and bronzetti
Sardinia is not just an ancient land. The millennia-old past still influences the character of the island and forms its strongest energy field. Having visited Sardinia, you must definitely get acquainted with its great past - with its unique history, otherwise the soul of this island will remain closed and unknown. From the depths of 3-5 thousand years of history, artifacts that are famous all over the world, but are practically unknown here in Russia, reach the present day.
In the Castello quarter there is the National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari, which in the last two years has become one of the most visited attractions in Sardinia thanks to a unique exhibition of mysterious statues of the 1st millennium BC, called the Giants of Monte Prama after the name of the area in western Sardinia where they were accidentally discovered by peasants in 1974. Today, the Giants of Monte Prama are recognized as one of the most ambitious archaeological discoveries of the Mediterranean of the 20th century.These majestic two-meter sculptures are carved from limestone blocks that weigh up to half a ton. During the excavations, 5178 fragments were discovered. Work was carried out in a huge restoration center for several decades, as a result of which about 30 statues were identified, including 16 “fighters”, 5 “archers”, 5 “warriors”. “Archers” hold a huge bow with a gloved hand, their chest is protected by a rectangular plate, and a two-horned helmet is on their head, “warriors” are armed with a round shield, and “wrestlers” in short tunics protect their heads with a bent shield. All statues have pronounced noses and eyebrows and huge, unearthly eyes, consisting of two concentric circles, in which there is mystery, magic, and power.
Similar figures, made on a much smaller scale, are found quite often in Sardinia. We are talking about the famous “bronzetti” - bronze sculptures ranging in size from 5 to 40 centimeters, found during excavations in nuraghe. The Archaeological Museum of Cagliari has an amazing collection of these figurines, accurately depicting the details of the weapons and clothing of warriors, priests and leaders, depicting domestic animals and skillfully made boats. Bronzetti and the Giants of Monte Prama open a small window into the mystical world of the Nuraghi, which undoubtedly had its own leaders, its own deities and magical rituals, serve as evidence of the highest level achieved by the Nuragic civilization and the huge number of unsolved secrets that this great people of the past still hides.Basilica of Saint Madonna Bonaria
On the Bonaria hill in the 14th century, Alfonso of Aragon built a small church in the Gothic Catalan style during the siege of Cagliari. Legend has it that on March 25, 1370, a mysterious box was found on the beach under the hill, having been left behind by a Spanish sailing ship during a storm. The monks managed to pick him up and bring him to the church; inside they found a statue of the Madonna and Child holding a still-burning candle. This statue has since been revered as a sacred relic, and the church was named the Temple of the Holy Madonna Bonaria. A huge flow of pilgrims from all over the island convinced the monks of the need to build a new, large church. Construction lasted exactly 222 years, from 1704 until 1926, when this largest temple in Sardinia was opened. The Basilica itself, which houses a 19th-century statue, and the Museum of Gifts to the Madonna, who became the patroness of sailors, are also a must-see.
Poetto
Poetto is the city beach of Cagliari. From the picturesque rock called “Devil’s Saddle”, a wide strip of sand stretches for 8 kilometers, equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, a favorite vacation spot for Cagliaritans. The famous Poetto kiosks - small bars, cafes and restaurants open until late at night - become the arena for music festivals and dance marathons in the summer. If you love entertainment and nightlife, be sure to head to Poetto and you will find a place to your liking.Molentarjus Park
Molentarjus Park is located in the salt lakes area near Poetto beach on an area of about 1600 hectares. This is a natural habitat for numerous waterfowl and other species, which is primarily surprising because the park is located just 5 minutes from the city center. The main decoration of the park, and indeed of the whole of Sardinia, are the magnificent pink flamingos, which have now become the symbol of Cagliari. For many years, these elegant birds have preferred to nest on the salt lakes of the island, making their graceful contribution to creating the image of Sardinia as a real Wonderland.Hill of Monte Urpinu
The hill, located in the Cagliari quarter of the same name, is one of the most beautiful and green areas in the city center. This is a wonderful park where you can relax and spend time among the greenery. And the very top of the hill prepares a wonderful surprise for visitors - from here there is a breathtaking view of Poetto beach, Molentarjus Park and the sea to the horizon on one side, and on the other - the ancient city and Castello hill, appearing in all its medieval grandeur.
