Alghero

ALGHERO, the tourism capital of northern Sardinia, traces its history back to the 11th century, when the tiny fishing village was fortified and became an important trading port. It remained under Genoese rule until the 1350s, when they finally relinquished control to the combined Catalan and Aragonese forces. Alghero became known as Barceloneta or “Little Barcelona” and remained under Catalan, and later, Spanish domination for some 400 years, until title to the town was eventually transferred back to the Sardinians. Today, many influences of its former Catalan masters remain, clearly reflected in both its magnificent architecture and by its elder residents, many of whom still regularly speak the Catalan dialect. In numerous restaurants around the old town this strong Spanish influence is still evident in their tempting menus.
Alghero’s ancient monuments are a focal point of life today, and are a constant reminder of the earliest influences. The Piazzas which proliferate within the old town area are linked by narrow cobbled lanes with their quaint dwellings, and are splendid examples of Alghero’s architectural heritage. Below the old town’s fortifications, a cosmopolitan range of modern yachts, pleasure craft and traditional fishing vessels jostle for position in the harbour. Beyond the immediate vicinity of the old town there is still more to explore. We recommend the wonderful lido beaches of Le Bombarde and Lazzaretto, the bays of Porto Conte and Capo Caccia, the picturesque Porticciolo and its 15th century tower on the headland. Alghero is a fascinating town of immense historical interest.