The town of Alghero rises from a wide harbour that dominates an enchanting countryside.It is a lively little town with a charming sea-side promenade and is frequented by tourists from all over the world. One sees in its monuments, old city walls, small streets and central squares the marks of its Aragonese and Spanish domination.
It was founded during the Middle Ages and remained under rule of the Doria from Genoa until the arrival of the Aragonese (1353), when it became a Castilian colony.The appearance of this small town is that of a fortress. Algherese, the Castilian dialect is still spoken today, a reminder, along with the little piazzas, the narrow streets and the architecture, of a bygone era.
Alghero, with its Coral Coast, is among the most noteworthy tourist destinations of the island; offering its visitors an enchanting coast complete with serene inlets along with fascinating civil and religious monuments and unforgettable style.
Among the impressive sights are imposing Spanish towers; the XVI century Cathedral consecrated in honour of Santa Maria, with its beautiful gothic-castilian style entrance; the XV century Church and Cloister of St. Francesco, built in the 5th century; the palaces of Doria and D’Albis; the St. Michele Church, the multiple-colored ceramic cupola of which was completed in this century.
Nearby are the Bombarde and Lazzaretto beaches. A "must see" is "Capo Caccia", were the coast overlooking the sea is 270 metres high. Erosion has given birth to the "Green Cave" and the famous "Neptune’s Cave", which can be reached either by boat sailing from Alghero, or by foot where you’ll lose yourself in the beautiful panoramic views as you descend the long "Escala del Cabirol" (stairway of Cabirol) which was dug into the rock.
In this region you’ll also find the fascinating archaeological sites of Palmavera and Anghelu Ruju.