Castelsardo, Italy: 360° Guide.

  map view 

Dramatic hilltop castle and medieval centre

Coastal Bell Tower	Coastal Road	Castelsardo Esplanade	Castelsardo Port

Castelsardo was founded in the 12th century by the Doria family of Genoa, as "Castelgenovese". When control fell to the Catalano-Aragonese in 1448 (who repopulated the town with Catalans) it was known as "Castellaragonese" and subsequently under Piedmontese control in 1776 to "Castelsardo". It is easy to imagine its strategic importance as soon as you see its location on the top of this high volcanic promontory overlooking the Gulf of Asinara. In both the “centro storico” and the relatively newer areas of Castelsardo there are plenty of restaurants (pasta, seafood, lobster), bars and cafes, some with dramatic coastal views. There is also a large port area across the river with great views back onto the town.

Sant Antonio Abate	Aragonese Bell Tower	Below Castle	Castelsardo Night View

Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the “centro storico” around the “Castello”. Visit its historic buildings; the “Cattedrale di Sant’ Antonio Abate” (16th century) with its beautiful Aragonese bell tower stunning interior with the 15th century and crypt, the “Chiesa de Santa Maria” with panoramic views up to the castle walls and down the cliffs to the sea. Visit the town’s “Museo dell’ Intreccio”, located within the castle, which will provide an insight into the basket weaving for which the town is famous (shops selling “artigiano” products abound). There is a small beach area in the centre of the town but more extensive beaches can be found at "Lu Bagnu" (less than 5 minutes by car).