Alghero

the tourism capital of northern Sardinia

Alghero, the tourism capital of northern Sardinia, has ten gorgeous beaches

In the 11th century the tiny fishing village was fortified and became an important trading port. It remained under Genoese rule until the 1350's, when they finally relinquished control to the combined Catalan and Aragonese forces. Alghero become known as "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 architecure and by its elder residents, many whom still regularly speak the Catalan dialect. In numerous restaurants around the old town this strong Spanish influence is still evident in there 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.

Sardinia's most beautiful, most famous grottoes can be reached by boat (3hrs) from Alghero.