3 Reasons to Visit Cagliari: The Heart of Sardinia
Cagliari, located on the southern coast of Sardinia, is a fascinating city that blends centuries of history with a vibrant modern life. Known for its incredible beaches and rich cultural offerings, Cagliari is a must-see destination for anyone looking to discover the heart of Sardinia.
If you’re unsure why you should visit Cagliari, here are 3 great reasons!
1) A City rich in history and culture
Cagliari, the region's capital and the largest city in Sardinia was founded by the Phoenicians around the 7th century BC. It is characterized by four historic districts, the most important of which is Castello. Here you can find some of the city’s most important monuments, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Palazzo Regio, and the twin towers of San Pancrazio and the Elephant. Walking through the narrow streets of Castello is like taking a step back in time, surrounded by ancient walls and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Angels.
If the temperatures are too high, you can opt to visit the underground caves of Cagliari, known for having housed Saint Efisio, the most venerated saint in Sardinia, during his imprisonment.
View of Cagliary City, Sardinia. Source: Adobestock
2) Cagliari: between Nature and outdoor adventures
In addition to its historical monuments, Cagliari offers numerous activities that allow you to discover the city from different perspectives. The Sardinian capital is surrounded by lush nature that offers countless excursions and outdoor activities opportunities. If you like parks, for example, you can visit the Molentargius-Saline Park, a natural oasis situated between Cagliari and Quartu Sant’Elena, famous for its stunning pink flamingos. If you prefer more adventurous activities, you can engage in hiking, e-biking, and climbing, not to mention all the water sports: from SUP to diving and much more!
3) If you love good food, Cagliari is the place to be
Like any respectable seaside city, Cagliari is an incredible destination to taste the amazing dishes of Sardinian tradition, especially those based on seafood. Among these, you can’t miss the typical Fregula, the most famous variant of which is made with Sardinian clams, and pesce a scabecciu, fried fish served with a tomato sauce.
But Sardinian culinary tradition offers much more, and to discover its deeper secrets, it is recommended to visit the San Benedetto Market: the largest covered food market in Italy.
Conclusion
Cagliari is a city that is enchanted with its rich history, natural beauty, and incredible atmosphere. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or gourmet, Cagliari has something to offer everyone. Plan your visit and let yourself be captivated by the charm of this Sardinian city!