A Historical and Cultural Journey through Cagliari – 01/2014

Cagliari is the administrative center of the autonomous region of Sardinia. With a population of about 150,000 people, the city is relatively small in size. However, it has a rich history dating back to ancient times when it was first settled by the Phoenicians and Carthaginians. The city was first mentioned in 532 AD under the name of Calaris.

I visited Cagliari during the winter in January and was pleasantly surprised by the mild temperatures of around +15 degrees Celsius during Christmas time. Although the water was too cold for swimming, it was still possible to sunbathe on the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

One of the most striking features of Cagliari is its stunning architecture, with buildings and structures dating back to the medieval era. The city’s narrow streets and alleys are lined with colorful houses, shops, and historical landmarks. As I walked through the city, I felt like I was transported back in time.

One of the must-visit places in Cagliari is the ancient fortress of Castello, located on a hill overlooking the city. The fortress is home to several historical buildings, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria, which boasts a beautiful Gothic-style architecture. The panoramic views of the city from the fortress are simply breathtaking.

Another interesting place to visit is the Roman Amphitheater, which is one of the best-preserved ancient structures in the city. It was built in the 2nd century AD and could seat up to 10,000 spectators. Today, it is used for concerts and cultural events.

In addition to its rich history and architecture, Cagliari also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and art exhibitions. It’s a great place to explore and immerse oneself in the local culture and traditions. Overall, I highly recommend visiting Cagliari for anyone interested in history, culture, and beautiful scenery.

1. Golfo di Cagliari – Golfo degli Angeli – also known as the Gulf of Angels.

The Gulf of Angels is a stunning bay located in the southern part of Sardinia, Italy, and is also known as Golfo di Cagliari or Gulf of Cagliari. The bay stretches from the Sella del Diavolo (Devil’s Saddle) in the west to the Capo Sant’Elia (Cape Saint Elias) in the east, and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and cliffs.

Legend has it that the name “Gulf of Angels” was given to the bay by sailors who were struck by its beauty and believed that they had arrived in paradise. The name “Gulf of Cagliari” refers to the nearby city of Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia.

2. It was just a normal cold plunge. We only dipped our fingers in.

3. The full set 🇮🇹 – beach, sand, sea, football, newspapers, and a dog.

4. The Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria – The Basilica of Good Winds – the patron saint of sailors. Founded in 1324.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria, also known as the Basilica of Good Winds, is a beautiful church located in the city of Cagliari, Sardinia. It was founded in 1324 and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who is believed to be the protector of sailors.

Legend has it that the name “Bonaria” comes from the Spanish phrase “buen aire”, which means “good air” or “good winds”. Sailors would pray to the Virgin Mary for favorable winds and safe voyages, and the church became a popular pilgrimage site for seafarers.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria is an impressive example of Gothic-Catalan architecture, with its stunning rose window and elegant bell tower. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with beautiful frescoes, marble altars, and intricate carvings.

In addition to its religious significance, the Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria is also an important cultural landmark in Cagliari. It is home to a museum that showcases the history of the church and the city, as well as an art gallery that features works by local and international artists.

Overall, the Basilica of Our Lady of Bonaria is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Cagliari.

5. The Bastion of Saint Remy is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city of Cagliari, Sardinia. It was built in the late 19th century as part of the city’s fortifications and was named after King Charles Felix’s prime minister, Baron Raimondo de’ Raimondi.

The Bastion of Saint Remy is located in the historic center of Cagliari and offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the sea. Visitors can climb to the top of the bastion via a grand staircase and enjoy the beautiful view from the terrace.

The bastion is also home to several important cultural institutions, including the Sardinian Ethnographic Museum and the Civic Art Gallery. These institutions showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of the city and are a must-visit for anyone interested in the local culture.

In addition to its cultural significance, the Bastion of Saint Remy is also a popular spot for events and celebrations. During the holiday season, the bastion is decorated with lights and hosts a variety of festive activities.

Overall, the Bastion of Saint Remy is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cagliari. Its rich history, cultural significance, and stunning views make it one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. And on that note, Happy New Year!