Alghero Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Alghero

Piazza Civica is located not far from the Port of Alghero. It is one of the largest and most significant squares in Alghero. Here you can find Palazzo d’Albis, which was once the governor’s palace. Piazza Civica is the place where Holy Roman Emperor Charles V gave his legendary speech to the people before the departure of the Sardinian military to fight the Turks.

Maddalena Fort is the only survivor of the original three forts built at this location. It was constructed in the 16th century and was dedicated to Mary Magdalene. The statue of Mary Magdalene stands at the fort, although it is largely unrecognizable due to destruction from the passage of time. Today Maddalena Fort is used as a venue for summer events, jazz festivals and outdoor classical music concerts.

The Museum of Sacred Art is one of the most important museums in Alghero. It is housed in the former Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church. It displays the valuable art collections of the city’s historic churches and cathedrals. Here you can see pieces that represents the cultural and spiritual life of Alghero, including wooden sculptures, paintings, statues and more.

Alghero Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral was the seat of the Bishop of Alghero from 1503 to 1986, and since 1986 has been that of the Bishop of Alghero-Bosa. Alghero was designated as a diocesan seat in 1503 but construction work on the cathedral did not begin until the 1530's. It was not opened until 1593, and not finished and consecrated until 1730. It is the burial site of the Italian born Duke of Montferrat (1762-1799) and his brother Count of Asti (1766-1802) who died on the island having caught malaria. The church was originally in Catalan-Gothic style, as can be seen in the five chapels and ambulatory of the presbytery, which also includes the octagonal base of the bell tower. The nave and the two aisles are however in Late Renaissance style. In the 19th century a Neo-Classical narthex was added to the facade, which dramatically changed its appearance.

Bastioni Marco Polo is located between the Tower of St. James (Torre di San Giacomo) and Bastioni Cristoforo Colombo. After significant renovation, Bastioni Marco Polo has become a popular place to visit and to enjoy the sunset. The numerous restaurants and bars in the area also attract the crowds.

The Civic Theater is located in the heart of Sardinian Square. It was built in 1829 and finished in 1862 by architect Franco Poggi. The last restoration was in 2004, and the stage and auditorium remain true to Poggi's original design. The Civic Theater is one of the most famous places in the city, as it serves as the venue for many cultural and artistic events. The interior of the theater was designed in the Neoclassical style, and the stage is surrounded by beautiful ornaments. The first performance held here was of the opera "Lucia di Lammermoor" by Gaetano Donizetti.

Dating back to 1360 and rebuilt in the late 16th century, St. Francis Church is one of the greatest examples of the Gothic-Catalan style in Sardinia. Original Catalan-Gothic parts can be seen over the high altar, the presbytery chapels and the San Sacramento Chapel. The building is made of stone and is characterized by its bell tower from the first half of the 16th century. The facade is ornamented with a lintel of classic style, in which is carved the emblem of the Franciscans surrounded by angels.

Torre di Sulis, also known as Torre de l'Esperó Rejal, is located in Piazza Sulis. It was built in the 14th century by a local citizen named Vincenzo Sulis. The interior of the tower is separated into two large rooms. Torre de Sulis marks the end of Alghero's Old Town.

Miramare Cinema is the most famous movie theater in Alghero. It is located in Piazza Sulis, a popular meeting place for locals, especially youth. In the lobby of the cinema, there is a cafe where you can order drinks and popcorn.

Saint Michael’s Church is one of the most important Baroque-style buildings in Sardinia. In 1503 Alghero was designated as a diocesan seat, but the church did not open until 1593. The exterior of the building is accentuated by a plinth of squared blocks. The church is recognized for its colorful and uniquely designed dome.

Palazzo Simon is located on Via Gilbert Ferret, close to San Giovanni Tower. It was built in the late 13th century and restored in the late 19th century. The building was designed in the Neoclassical style. Above the massive front door, which is framed by an arch, is the emblem of the Simon family, the first owners of the palace.

Central Market is located on Via Sassari, a few minutes away from Torre di San Giovanni. The market provides a unique food shopping experience. People come here to find a variety of ingredients, including meat, fish, fruit, vegetables and more.

The Public Gardens are located near Forte della Maddalena. The park is famous for its beauty. Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds and enjoy the wide variety of plants and trees. Important monuments such as the Unitat de la Lengua, the Giuseppe Manno monument and the War Memorial can all be found in the gardens.