Sassari

Sassari is a historic and cultural city in the northern part of Sardinia, Italy. It is the second most populous city on the island and is known for its elegant architecture, rich history, and vibrant traditions.

Here is an overview of Sassari’s history and its main attractions:

History Highlights

Sassari’s history dates back to the early Middle Ages, although the surrounding area has been inhabited since the Neolithic age by the Nuragic civilization. The city’s development was shaped by numerous rulers and powers:

• Early Years: It is believed to have been founded around the 9th-10th century AD by inhabitants of the ancient Roman port of Turris Libisonis (now Porto Torres) seeking refuge from Saracen raids.
• Medieval Period: It became the most populous city and final capital of the Giudicato of Torres (an independent Sardinian kingdom).
• Republic of Sassari: After a period under Pisa, the city gained semi-independence and became the Republic of Sassari in the late 13th century, an early independent city-state allied with Genoa.
• Aragonese and Spanish Rule: In the 14th century, it sided with the Kingdom of Aragon, eventually coming under long-term Spanish rule. This period is reflected in much of its older architecture.
• Modern Era: Sassari became a significant city in the unified Kingdom of Sardinia and later in the unified Kingdom of Italy.

Main Attractions

In the City Center:

• Piazza d’Italia: The heart of Sassari, this grand central square is surrounded by impressive 19th-century buildings in neoclassical and neo-Gothic styles, such as the Palazzo della Provincia and Palazzo Giordano.
• Cattedrale di San Nicola (Cathedral of St. Nicholas): Sassari’s cathedral, located in the historic center, features a stunning Baroque façade, blending Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements.
• Fontana del Rosello (Rosello Fountain): A monumental late-Renaissance fountain, considered the symbol of Sassari. It features statues representing the four seasons.
• Historic Centre (Centro Storico): A maze of narrow, medieval streets and lively squares like Piazza Tola, featuring historic palaces and artisan workshops.
• Palazzo Ducale (Ducal Palace): A historic mansion that now serves as the City Hall and part of the Museo della Città.

Museums:

• Museo Nazionale Archeologico ed Etnografico “G.A. Sanna”: The main museum for Sardinian archaeology and ethnography, housing an extensive collection of artifacts from the prehistoric to the medieval periods, including Nuragic relics.
• Pinacoteca Nazionale di Sassari: The municipal art gallery, featuring paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Archaeological Sites & Nearby Nature:

• Monte d’Accoddi: An extraordinary and unique prehistoric megalithic altar, often described as resembling a Mesopotamian ziggurat. It is located just a short distance outside the city.
• Nuraghe Sant’Antine: One of the largest and most important Nuragic complexes in Sardinia, located near the city.
• Asinara National Park: Easily accessible from nearby towns like Stintino and Porto Torres, this former penal colony is now a beautiful natural park with pristine beaches and unique wildlife.
• Lake Baratz: The only natural lake in Sardinia, offering a beautiful natural escape.

Traditional Festivals

Sassari is famous for two major traditional festivals:

• La Faradda di li Candareri (The Descent of the Candlesticks): A spectacular, UNESCO-recognized procession held on August 14th, where enormous wooden “candlesticks” are carried and “danced” through the streets by representatives of the ancient craft guilds (gremi).
• Cavalcata Sarda (Sardinian Cavalcade): A grand parade and display of traditional costumes, folklore, and horsemanship from all over Sardinia, usually held in May.