Where is Cagliari? Cagliari, Sardinia. Bastion of Saint Catherine - Bastione di Santa Caterina

39°13′ N. w.  9°07′ E. d.HGIO L Burgomaster Massimo Zedda

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    Encyclopedic YouTube 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.

    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.

    Cagliari(Italian Cagliari, Sardinian Casteddu, lat. Caralis listen)) is a city in the Italian region of Sardinia, the administrative center of the province.

    Story

    Early history

    A settlement on the site of the modern city of Cagliari has existed since ancient times. The 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 called 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 Byzantine Emperor Justinian annexed the island to the Eastern Roman Empire. The city began to be called Kalaris, probably because it was more convenient to pronounce the name in Greek. Calaris became the residence of the imperial 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 immigrants 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, major trade sea routes headed to the New World, and Cagliari's importance as a trading port began to wane.

    XVIII century

    Flamingo in Cagliari

    In 1701, the War of the Spanish Succession broke out in Europe. This war was fought by France and Bavaria against the Holy Roman Empire of 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 Sardinian estates 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.

    On December 30, 1860, King Victor Emmanuel II (1849-1878) signed a decree according to which Cagliari was deleted from the list of fortresses in Italy. The city authorities faced the question: what to do with the city walls? As a result, a Solomonic decision was made: the walls encircling the Marina, Stampace and Villanova neighborhoods were demolished, and the Cagliari fortress was preserved.

    The end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries were marked by the activities of the ambitious mayor of Cagliari, Ottone Bacareda. He encouraged construction, and during these years the city acquired its modern appearance. During the years of the fascist regime in Italy (1922-1943), the headquarters of competing parties were dispersed in Cagliari, and oppositionists, such as Emilio Lussu, had to go into exile. At the same time, during these years a lot was done for the construction and improvement of the city. The fascist mayor of Cagliari, lawyer Enrico Endrich, attracted citizens to participate in the all-Italian “piccone risanatore” movement; this intricate expression can be translated as “healing pickaxe.” This movement aimed to rebuild and improve ancient cities.

    During the Second World War (1939-1945), Cagliari was repeatedly bombed by Allied aircraft. In February 1943, after another raid, many residents moved from the city to mountain villages. After Fascist Italy capitulated in September 1943, Sardinia was occupied by units of the Nazi Wehrmacht. However, they soon left, choosing as a strategy the accumulation of forces on the territory of continental Italy. After this, Sardinia was occupied by American troops. The airfields on the island are of great strategic importance, since from here air forces can be quickly transferred to the continent, to Sicily or to North Africa. That is why NATO military bases are still located in Sardinia today.

    In 1949, Cagliari was proclaimed the capital of the Autonomous Region of Sardinia of the Italian Republic.

    The Botanical Garden in Cagliari is one of the most popular in Italy. It’s hard to believe that there used to be a city dump in its place, which turned into a blooming garden thanks to students of the local university under the leadership of Professor Patrizio Gennari. The garden was founded in 1866 and since then has been the scientific base of the Faculty of Biology. During the Second World War it was bombed, after which it had to start all over again.

    Currently, it is a picturesque place with fountains, lawns, comfortable benches and well-groomed paths. The garden area covers more than 5 hectares of land and is divided into 4 sections, including Mediterranean, tropical, succulents and medicinal plants. It is home to about 1,000 species of plants from around the world, including a huge collection of flowering cacti and century-old oak trees. In addition, in the garden you can see Punic and Roman ruins of great historical value.

    There are cafes and souvenir shops in a specially designated area.

    Royal Palace

    The Royal Palace is a historical building built in the 14th century. It was the residence of the royal governors of the Aragonese dynasty, the Spanish period and the Savoy dynasty. Currently it houses the Prefecture and Administration of the Province of Cagliari. Over the centuries, the structure was rebuilt several times, the last extensive reconstruction taking place in 1985.

    The Royal Palace building combines classical and baroque features. Its façade is decorated with numerous relief images. Ornate white columns topped with stucco details are located on both sides of the main entrance. A special feature of the building is the large number of rectangular windows with shutters. The exterior decoration of the building is dominated by pastel colors. In general, the building looks strict but harmonious.

    The Royal Palace is usually closed to the public. Access here is possible only during concerts and by appointment for excursion groups.

    What sights of Cagliari did you like? Next to the photo there are icons, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.

    Royal Palace

    The Royal Palace is an important historical monument in the province of Cagliari, Italy. During the reign of the Aragonese, Spanish and Savoyard conquerors, the palace was the residence of their royal representatives. Nowadays, it houses the prefecture and administration of the province of Cagliari, whose Council meets in the beautiful central hall.

    The long and noble history of the palace begins in the 14th century. It became the residence of the viceroy in 1337 at the request of Peter IV of Aragon. Over the centuries, the building has repeatedly undergone various changes and reconstructions. Between 1799 and 1815 the palace was the official residence of the Savoyard royal family and court in exile (Turin was occupied by Napoleon at this time). In 1885, the palace became municipal property, and it was then that the restoration of the interior was carried out.

    The main building, rectangular in plan, contains three tiers. The windows are framed by monumental stone pilasters that run the length of the building and support a cornice made of solid stone. The mezzanine windows, located above projecting cornices, open onto graceful balconies. In addition to Provincial Council meetings, important international exhibitions are also held here.

    The Tower of the Elephant is a mighty structure erected in 1307 according to the design of the architect Giovanni Capula. It stood on the Castello hill, overlooking the sea. The height of the tower was about 30 meters.

    It was part of the city's defensive system and was designed to protect one of the main entrances to Castello. Three sides of the tower were made of white limestone, and the fourth was open and had four floors of wooden galleries. During the Aragonese dynasty, the Tower of the Elephant was converted into a prison, and the heads of executed criminals were hung on its walls for all to see. In 1906, it was restored and acquired its original appearance. On the south side of the tower there is a small statue of an elephant, from which its name comes, as well as the original coats of arms of the families of Pisa.

    The tower has now lost its dominant position among the surrounding civilian and military buildings, but it remains an important historical monument and tourist attraction.

    Church of San Alenixedda

    The Church of San Alenixedda, built at the beginning of the 14th century, is a small architectural gem among the Roman ruins in Cagliari. The name Alenixedda is a diminutive of Aleni (Elena). The church is dedicated to the Empress Helena of Sardinia, and the affectionate name comes from the need to distinguish the small church from other places of worship.

    The church building consists of one nave and is distinguished by its simple lines. The elegant trapezoidal facade is made in the Gothic style. It is divided by four pilasters into three main portals. There are two small arched projections above the main entrance. The central part of the facade is crowned with a high through arch with a cross, on which rises a bell tower. The protruding cornice in the shape of a triangle is decorated with teeth. The interior space of the building seems smaller than it actually is, due to the small number of windows.

    The Church of San Alenixedda has been restored in the modern era and is open to visitors.

    Church of Santa Rosalia

    The Church of Santa Rosalia, founded in the 15th century, is located in the historical center of the city. In 1982, the last reconstruction and modernization of the building took place, which only emphasized its former greatness.

    The façade of the building, lavishly decorated with pilasters and pediments, is a striking representative of the Baroque style. The main entrance to the church is crowned with the coat of arms of the Savoy dynasty. In its upper part there are elegant niches in which statues of the Franciscan saints Bonaventure and Anthony of Padua are installed. The interior of the church has a nave with a vault, an octagonal dome and eight chapels. On a high marble altar, the relics of St. Salvator are kept in a bronze urn. He is one of the most beloved and revered saints of Sardinia, which is why the church is also known as San Salvatore. The mosaic design on the apse depicts the death of the saint. The church hall is decorated with ancient paintings and colorful stained glass windows.

    The temple has a wonderful organ; various musical events and international organ festivals are regularly held here.

    Basilica of San Saturnino

    The Basilica of San Saturnino is an early Christian church in Cagliari, which was first mentioned at the beginning of the 6th century. Presumably, the church was built near the burial place of Saint Saturninus, who, according to medieval documents, was martyred in 305. The last consecration of the church took place in 2004 after a long restoration lasting about eight years.

    The basilica is located next to the necropolis, where archaeological excavations are being carried out. A small part of the original structure, built in the form of a Greek cross with a hemispherical dome, has survived. The current building consists of a domed room and an eastern wing with a nave ending in a semicircular apse. The main entrance to the basilica is decorated with remarkable decorative inclusions. The east window is decorated with Lombard blind arches.

    The Basilica of Saturnino is a significant historical landmark and a famous tourist attraction.

    Church of the Holy Sepulcher

    The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is a monumental church in the historical district of Cagliari. Presumably, it was founded in 1564 by the Knights Templar, who organized the Brotherhood of the Holy Cross, whose main task was the burial of poor people.

    The church consists of one nave with side chapels. One of the many attractions of its interior is the Chapel of Our Lady of Mercy, which is a prominent representative of the Baroque style. There is a gilded wooden altar with a depiction of the Madonna and Child. On the walls there are ancient paintings of historical value. The burial chamber, in which burials were carried out until the mid-19th century, is noteworthy. Access to it was through a hatch in the center of the nave. The crypt consists of three vaulted rooms, decorated with frescoes with mourning drapery. On the vaults of the central room there is a figurine of Death in an ermine coat, with a crown and a scythe.

    Thanks to restoration work in 1990, the entire territory of the church is open to visitors.

    The most popular attractions in Cagliari with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Cagliari on our website.

    Individual and group

    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!

    Cagliari is a relatively small Italian city. It is located in the middle of a cozy and picturesque valley on the southern coast of Sardinia. For all its compactness, Cagliari is the administrative center of the island of Sardinia. The complex and very checkered history of the city, rooted in ancient times, has left us with a rich cultural heritage. Thanks to Cagliari, Italy has received another powerful point of attraction for tourists from all over the world.

    How to get to the capital of Sardinia, Cagliari

    If you intend to visit Cagliari, you must first get to the island itself. The fastest and shortest way is by air. This way you can immediately find yourself practically in the suburbs of Cagliari - Elmas International Airport is located just 7 km from the city center.

    Elmas serves flights of dozens of low-cost airlines. True, there are no direct regular flights from Russia and Ukraine to Cagliari airport. You will have to make one transfer, for example, at Rome Fiumicino airport.

    You can select the most suitable flight options in terms of time and price in the form below.

    In addition to Elmas Airport near Cagliari, there are also airports on the island of Sardinia. So you can either Alghero, and then get to Cagliari by land - by train or bus. Cagliari's main train and bus stations are located in Piazza Giacomo Matteotti. All public traffic from all directions of the island flows here.

    The cost of tickets can be very different and do not depend only on the mileage. So, for example, a three-hour trip to Iglesias will cost 2-3 euros, while a half-time journey by bus to Oristano will cost 6-9 euros.

    Elmas Airport is 7 km from Cagliari

    Rail transport is also developed in Sardinia. You can find out the flight schedule and ticket prices, as well as book tickets for the desired flight.

    Another way to get to Cagliari is by ferry. Night liners from Civitavecchia, Naples, as well as from the neighboring island of Sicily ply along the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea to the southern coast of Sardinia. The message is irregular. It is best to find out the schedule and cost of tickets on the official website of the carrier

    And finally, if you are traveling with your own or a rented car, you can get to Cagliari in Sardinia via the SS131 Carlo Felice motorway via Sassari and Oristano or via the SS130 motorway via Iglesias.

    Where to stay in Cagliari

    There are plenty of accommodation options in Cagliari. Starting from inexpensive guesthouses and ending with “luxury” apartments and hotels of varying star ratings. Prices for guesthouse rooms start from 35 euros per night (2018). The minimum prices for rooms in 3-star hotels are on average twice as high - from 65 euros per night. In the “budget” price segment, the advantages of hotels over guest houses are quite blurred, and often a good guesthouse can give a head start in terms of comfort and options to a more expensive hotel.

    In any case, there is plenty to choose from. A flexible filter system and guest reviews will help you form your own idea and make an informed choice. To find the best accommodation in Cagliari, simply follow the link below.

    Sights of Cagliari

    Like many other cities and towns in Italy, Cagliari is literally awash with ancient monuments. Since the times of Ancient Rome, almost every era has left something of its own in the city. And now, traveling around the country, you can enjoy all these priceless artifacts.

    Cathedral

    Cathedral of St. Mary is a real decoration of the capital of Sardinia, Cagliari. This is both a unique architectural center that sets the mood for the rest of the ensemble of buildings and structures, and a very serious center of pilgrimage. It is here that a priceless Christian relic is located - thorns from the crown of thorns of Jesus Christ.

    Cathedral of St. Mary's in Cagliari

    It all started with the old fortress and the small church of St. Mary on its territory. Since then, the citadel has been expanded and rebuilt many times, and the small church, which received in the 13th century. the status of a cathedral, grew into that majestic structure that now towers over the historical center of the city.

    Roman amphitheater

    Despite its venerable age (about 2 thousand years), a distinct “seal” of the great Roman Empire – the amphitheater – has been well preserved in Cagliari to this day. Its area is very impressive - about 6 thousand square meters. meters.

    During the times of Ancient Rome, all the spectacular events typical of those times were held here - sports competitions, gladiatorial fights, public executions. Nowadays, the Cagliari Amphitheater also quite successfully fulfills its direct function, however, without bloodshed - in the summer season, concerts, theatrical performances and other cultural events are held here.

    To this day, spectacular performances take place on the stage of the Roman Amphitheater.

    Archaeological Museum

    Museum lovers will not be left indifferent by visiting the National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari. This museum, located on Arsenal Square, is considered the largest historical museum in Sardinia. The most interesting thing in the exhibition is the collection of bronzetti - figurines unique to the island from the Nuraghe era, which tell about the life and way of life of the ancient peoples of Sardinia.

    Tower of Torre del Elefante

    Like other cities of the Middle Ages in Italy, Cagliari acquired its own fortified city walls with towers.

    Of particular interest in the fortress is the Torre del Elefante (“Tower of the Elephant”), which you definitely need to climb. The tower got its name from the sculpture of an elephant located on one of the walls at a height of 10 meters.

    The tower got its name thanks to the inconspicuous figure of an elephant on the facade

    This tower, as well as two others - Torre di San Pancrazio and Torre del L'Aquila - were built by the architect Giovanni Capula as part of the defensive complex of the city. At that time, Cagliari was part of the Pisan Republic and was greatly annoyed by the Genoese and Saracen pirates.

    Bastion of San Remy

    Another unusually striking architectural landmark of Cagliari in Italy is the Bastion of San Remi. It would seem, what's special? There are practically no significant historical events associated with this building - it was not the center of historical battles, no relics were stored in it, and local legends are not associated with it.

    There is an observation deck on the Bastion of Sant Remi

    The bastion attracts thanks to its observation deck, which offers magnificent views of the lower city, the garden and the coast. During the warm months, there is a cozy café with excellent cuisine and live music right on the terrace.

    Molentarjus Park

    Italian Cagliari is famous not only for its history. Amazing nature is another value of the area in which the city is located. And the place of the densest concentration of natural beauty is the Molentargius Regional Nature Park.

    In Molentarjus Park there are reservoirs with both salt and fresh water

    There are lakes with both salt and fresh water, which makes the park's ecosystem unusually dynamic. You can come to the park at any time of the year and find something new and beautiful every time.

    Botanical Garden

    Continuing the theme of wildlife, one cannot fail to mention the Botanical Garden at the University. This green oasis was opened in 1866 thanks to the efforts of University students and faculty. At the moment, over 2 thousand species of plants, including exotic ones, grow here. There is also an unusual herbarium museum on the territory, containing about 50 thousand of all kinds of dried specimens that once grew on the territory of the Botanical Garden.

    Embankment and Marina area

    Cagliari would not be a port city without a promenade equipped for walking. It is located in the historical district of Marina di Cagliari, where the houses of the local port workers have long been located.

    The Marina di Cagliari district is considered the oldest in the city

    Now the old houses have been occupied by fashionable shops, cozy cafes and restaurants, where you can not only have a good time, but also admire the stunning sunset.

    Cuisine and restaurants

    From the sights, let's get back to pressing matters. To visit Cagliari and not try real Sardinian cuisine is a crime. Moreover, you can find it both in the center and on the embankment. Seafood is especially popular here. Local delicacies include shellfish (cocciula), which are traditionally served with couscous, spaghetti or stuffed with garlic and olive oil.

    Other popular fish dishes are sa cassola - fish soup with tuna and mullet caviar, campidanese - lobster in sauce and scabbecciu - fried fish in a spicy sauce.

    Seafood can always be found on the table in Cagliari and Sardinia in general

    In addition to seafood, the local menu also includes spaghetti, which is traditionally served with tomatoes and grated bread, malloreddus - Sardinian dumplings, or impanadas - a dish of vegetables stuffed with minced meat.

    Speaking of meat, it is not difficult to find in Cagliari. In any local restaurant, meat eaters will be offered to try lamb stew or the famous roasted pig “porceddu”.

    Well, for dessert, pardulas are suitable - sweets with the addition of cheese, seadas - fried ravioli with honey and raisins or pabassinas - crispy cookies with raisins.

    The best way to wash down all this abundance is with a glass of good local wine. Fortunately, there will be no problems with this in Cagliari.

    Photos by: lucamascaro, Hans Peter Schaefer, FollowingHadrian, Giova81, Giancarlodessi, cristianocani, fabulousfabs, Mprieur, Unukorno

     

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