Castelsardo and the Anglona Region
The Historical Region of Anglona
Anglona is a sub-region in northern Sardinia overlooking the Gulf of Asinara, bounded by the sea,
the Coghinas River, and Mount Sassu. Its landscape is characterized by volcanic and limestone
plateaus (Anglona interna) and a lower coastal valley (Anglona marittima), supporting intensive
agriculture, artisanship, and coastal tourism.
Overview of Castelsardo
Castelsardo (Casteddu Saldu in Sassarese) is the principal historic town of Anglona, dramatically
perched on a steep volcanic promontory overlooking the Gulf of Asinara. Recognized as one of the
Borghi più belli d’Italia, the town preserves its medieval layout, steep stone stairways, crafting
traditions (such as dwarf-palm basket weaving), and historical fortifications.
Origins & History:
Prehistoric habitation is attested by the nearby Roccia dell’Elefante (domus de
janas tombs). The town’s historical era began in 1102 when the powerful Genoese Doria family
fortified the promontory, naming it Castel Genovese. It functioned as an independent republican
municipality governed by the Statuti di Galeotto Doria (“Peace and goodness preserve the
republic”). In 1448, Aragonese forces captured the fortress, ending the Doria rule and renaming it
Castelaragonese. It was elevated to a Royal City (Città regia) and became an episcopal see in
1503. In 1769, under Savoyard rule, it was renamed Castelsardo.
Key Sites & Cultural Highlights
• Roccia dell’Elefante (Elephant Rock): A massive trachytic boulder eroded by weathering
into the natural shape of an elephant, containing two prehistoric domus de janas tombs
carved into its structure.
• Doria Castle & Museum of Mediterranean Weaving (MIM): The medieval hilltop fortress
built by the Doria family, offering expansive views across the Gulf of Asinara toward Corsica.
Within its historic chambers, the MIM showcases traditional Mediterranean basketry and
native Sardinian plant-fiber crafts, including the unique Fassonis reed boats.
• Con-Cathedral of Sant’Antonio Abate: Built in the late 15th century in Late-Gothic style
with subsequent renovations. Its bell tower is carved directly from an ancient sea watchtower.
The interior preserves the famous 15th-century altarpiece panel of the Madonna and Child by
the anonymous Master of Castelsardo.
• Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art: Located in the subterranean crypts of the cathedral,
housing liturgical silver, sacred vestments, and the remaining three panels of the Master of
Castelsardo retable (Saint Michael, The Four Apostles, and The Trinity).
• Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie: Located at the foot of the old town, housing Lu Criltu
Nieddu (the Black Christ), a revered 14th-century juniper-wood crucifix. It serves as the
starting point for the dramatic Holy Week processions, notably the LunisSanti.
• LunisSanti Holy Week Rites: A major historical tradition dating back to medieval
Benedictine foundations. On Easter Monday, hooded penitents (Li Apostuli) and three
unaccompanied polyphonic choirs (Lu Miserere, Lu Stabat Mater, and Lu Iesu) march in
procession from Castelsardo to the Basilica of Tergu and back by torchlight.