Sardinia (Alghero), Italy
Sardinia (Alghero), Italy
Description
View cruises with Sardinia (Alghero), ItalySardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean. Like its neighbor Corsica, Sardinia boasts a dramatic coastline, superb small harbors and beaches that draw visitors from around the world. Gaunt hills crowned with granite outcropping take up most of the island interior, though the landscape is broken by vineyards and groves of olive trees and cork oaks. The island's harsh beauty is counterpointed by its rich culture - the island boasts extensive prehistoric ruins, fine Pisan churches and medieval walled towns.
For centuries, Italian city-states and Spain vied for control of Sardinia. The old port of Alghero has a distinctive Catalan feel - it was known as "Little Barcelona." The Albi Palace was a residence for the Spanish viceroys who governed Sardinia.
Alghero is an anchorage port. Passengers transfer to shore via ship's tender.
Points of Interest
- Alghero / Palazzo Albis
- Church of San Francesco
- Nuraghe Palmavera
- Cape Caccia
- Grotto di Nettuno
- Castelsardo
- Bosa
- Wine Resort Leda' d'Ittiri
More about Sardinia (Alghero), Italy Points of Interest
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Alghero / Palazzo Albis -
Fought over for centuries by Italy and Spain, the old harbor of Alghero has distinctively Catalan influences including language, architecture and cuisine. Its renowned for excellent seafood.
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Church of San Francesco -
This 14th century Romanesque church in Alghero's walled old town boasts a pink stone façade and graceful bell tower that dominates the building. It features an elegant Gothic interior.
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Nuraghe Palmavera -
Mysterious stone towers dotting Sardinia were erected by the Nuraghi culture in the second millennium B.C. Palmavera has one of the largest sites, featuring a grand structure surrounded by 50 others.
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Cape Caccia -
A lighthouse marks this natural harbor's western face. It is one of the wildest places in Sardinia with dramatic cliffs, caves, grottoes and a natural reserve covering over 7,400 acres.
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Grotto di Nettuno -
There are 656 steps called "Escala del Cabirol" that zigzag down to the grotto and its fantastic display of stalactites and stalagmites discovered by fishermen back in the 18th century.
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Castelsardo -
Once the seat of Italy's Doria clan, this walled Gothic town boasts a 12th century castle, narrow winding streets and the church of Santa Maria, home to the Black Christ, a 14th century crucifix.
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Bosa -
South of Alghero, this city is famous for the local Malvasia wine, olive oil, lace and filigree. Its old quarter boasts medieval Serravalle Castle and a black-sand beach with alleged healing powers.
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Wine Resort Leda' d'Ittiri -
Family owned wine makers located at the foot of Monte Doglia produce first class wine similar to Bordeuax red wines. They have planted Merlot and Cabernet grapevines and their production is Cannonau, Cagnulatri and Vermentino.
