In the captivating north of Sardinia, a treasure trove of remarkable places awaits exploration, and among these gems lies the enchanting town of Castelsardo. Nestled upon a hill, Castelsardo beckons with its labyrinthine streets and numerous steps, offering not only a splendid historical setting but also an irresistible atmosphere that leaves an indelible mark on every visitor.

Castelsardo

Over the centuries, Castelsardo changed hands multiple times, reflecting the complex history of Sardinia. It was ruled by various powers, including the Aragonese, Spanish, and Savoyard kingdoms. This succession of rulers left an indelible mark on the town’s architecture, culture, and traditions.

One of the town’s most iconic landmarks, the Cathedral of St. Anthony Abbot, was built in the late medieval period and features a beautiful Catalan-Gothic façade. The cathedral is a testament to the enduring influence of different cultures on Castelsardo.

In the 18th century, the town played a significant role in the Sardinian economy, particularly due to its thriving coral industry. Castelsardo was renowned for its skilled coral artisans, and the tradition continues to this day, with coral jewelry crafting being a notable local craft.

Today, Castelsardo stands as a living testament to its rich history, offering visitors a unique blend of medieval architecture, maritime heritage, and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants. The town’s fortress, ancient streets, and cultural treasures continue to draw travelers seeking a glimpse into Sardinia’s captivating past.

Castelsardo in Sardinia

Castelsardo city

Castelsardo and the ruins of the fortress can be reached by car or bus. You can park quite easily, there are many parking places behind the Conad Supermarket, or you can park along the road. You will surely find a place to park without paying. As soon as you leave your parking lot, you will see a small town, the ruins of Doria and the hill on which it stands. The view is truly magnificent, colorful and typically Italian. It reminds me a bit of Bosa.

The town itself is modest in size, neatly divided into two distinct parts: one nestled on the hill, and the other below. As you explore, you’ll stumble upon a delightful gelateria and a welcoming restaurant, ideal for a refreshing pause before embarking on the ascent to the fortress, or what remains of it. Just before this point, you’ll find a network of charming alleyways, a quintessential feature of Italian towns, brimming with opportunities to acquire souvenirs like hand-knit baskets, postcards, artisanal cheeses, or vibrant pasta.

Fortress Doria

The Doria Fortress, located in Castelsardo, Sardinia, is a historic landmark steeped in rich history. Built in the 12th century by the maritime Republic of Genoa, it served as a strategic stronghold against potential invaders and played a significant role in the defense of the region. Over the centuries, the fortress witnessed various rulers and battles, leaving behind a tangible reminder of its past.

Today, as you explore its ruins, you can still admire the architectural elements that showcase its medieval origins, such as massive stone walls, towers, and battlements. The Doria Fortress stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people who once inhabited it, offering visitors a glimpse into the fascinating history of Castelsardo and the surrounding region of Sardinia.

For a mere three euros, you gain entry to the fortress, opening the door to a world of captivating vistas that stretch across the landscape and embrace the entire coastline. Delight in an overview of ancient bread-making techniques, capture a snapshot beside the armored knight, and explore every nook and cranny of this once-mighty fortress. Galleries and rooms await your discovery, offering glimpses into the historical tapestry of this remarkable site.

Cute little colourful town

It’s a beautiful place, and it’s definitely worth every penny. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough for the rackets that will stare at you for ten minutes like in my case. At Castelsardo there is a park I saw only from the top and a cathedral. The town is small, but it has its own atmosphere and if you get lost like me, the locals will surely like to help you find the right way. Castelsardo can be seen just in an afternoon, but you can spend the whole day and walk around or lie on the beach.

Where to next?

There are so many places to visit in Sardinia. If you like hiking, I would recommend going to Capo Testa, for mysterious city vibes visit Nuoro or Oristano. For beaches, I’d say go to Asinara Islands, Cala Luna, la Pelosa, or Alghero – which is also great for little bit of Spanish vibes. Don’t forget to visit Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, or Argentiera, a former mining town. Olbia and Porto Istana are great for a little day trip. And cherry on the top – there’s a black beach in Sardinia. I also lived in Sassari for a while, so would highly recommend visiting this seconds largest city on this beautiful island as well. Not too far from it is also Porto Torres.

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