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Province of Sassari

Sassari Province
Stintino, province of Sassari

Following Sardinia’s administrative reorganization in 2016 and finalized in 2021, the Province of Sassari changed significantly. The former territory was divided: the northern part became the Province of Gallura, Northeast Sardinia, while Sassari retained its historic heart, including the city of Sassari itself, parts of Logudoro, Nurra, and the coast stretching west and north.

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Today, the new Province of Sassari represents a blend of Sardinia’s deepest traditions, spectacular nature, and a growing spirit of modernity, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from tourist crowds.

Sassari Province
Province of Sassari, Sardinia

A Historical Overview: Layers of Civilizations

The story of Sassari is deeply rooted in Sardinian history:

Prehistoric Era: The island was already inhabited in Neolithic times, with impressive Nuragic structures like Monte d’Accoddi, a unique step, pyramid (ca. 4,000–3,000 BC) with mysterious religious purposes.

Phoenicians and Carthaginians: Coastal areas saw trading colonies, remnants of which are visible at sites like Porto Torres.

Roman Era: Sassari’s strategic position connected it to Rome. Ruins of roads, bridges, and thermal baths remain across the countryside.

Medieval Period: Sassari city emerged as a commune in the 13th century, grew wealthy under Pisan and Genoese influences, and later fell under Aragonese (Spanish) control, shaping its architecture and traditions.

Modern Times: Today, Sassari blends its proud historical past with Sardinia’s push toward autonomy, sustainability, and cultural revival.

The City of Sassari: Elegant, Authentic, and Full of Life

At the heart of the province is Sassari, Sardinia’s second, largest city, and an underrated gem:

Piazza d’Italia: One of Italy’s largest and most elegant squares, a symbol of Sardinian unity and modern ambition.

Duomo di San Nicola: A majestic cathedral blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles.

Fontana di Rosello: A beautiful 17th, century fountain, a symbol of Sassari’s historic prosperity.

Museums: The Museo Nazionale Sanna houses Sardinia’s most important archaeological collections, from Nuragic bronzes to Roman artifacts.

Strolling through Sassari’s narrow alleys, visitors encounter atmospheric palaces, lively cafes, hidden churches, and vibrant street markets, a city that feels lived, in, proud, and distinctly Sardinian.

Cultural Heritage: Festivals, Traditions, and Arts

Sassari fiercely preserves its traditions:

Faradda di li Candareri (Descent of the Candelieri): Every August, enormous symbolic “candlesticks” are carried through the streets to fulfill an ancient vow to the Virgin Mary. This UNESCO, recognized event pulses with music, dance, and devotion.

Cavalcata Sarda: Every May, one of Sardinia’s grandest festivals features thousands parading in traditional costumes, accompanied by folk songs and horseback displays.

Art and Crafts: Traditional weaving, wood carving, and coral jewelry (especially in Alghero) continue to thrive, linking today’s artisans to ancient techniques.

Natural Wonders: From Secret Beaches to Mountain Landscapes

The province is extraordinarily diverse in nature:

Coastlines and Beaches

La Pelosa Beach (Stintino): Famous for its surreal turquoise waters and powdery white sand. Despite its popularity, strict visitor limits protect this fragile paradise.

Platamona Beach: A long stretch of golden sand north of Sassari city, ideal for family, friendly swimming.

Porto Torres Coast: Rocky coves and secret beaches surround this ancient Roman town, offering a more rustic seaside experience.

Islands and Protected Areas

Asinara National Park: Once a prison island, now a wilderness sanctuary where you can spot wild albino donkeys, hike pristine trails, and snorkel in untouched waters.

Capo Caccia and Neptune’s Grotto: Dramatic cliffs and caves overlooking the sea, with breathtaking panoramic trails and a famous limestone cave complex accessible by boat or foot.

Inland Beauty

Nurra and Logudoro: Vast, empty landscapes of rolling hills, olive groves, sheep pastures, and abandoned medieval churches. Ideal for hiking, photography, and cultural immersion.

Lake Baratz: Sardinia’s only natural freshwater lake, surrounded by forests and a peaceful haven for birdwatching and kayaking.

Historic Towns and Villages: Exploring the Province

Beyond Sassari city, the province is dotted with charming historic towns:

Castelsardo: A fortified medieval town rising above the sea, crowned by the Doria Castle and offering labyrinthine alleys, colorful houses, and stunning coastal views.

Porto Torres: A historic Roman town with ancient basilicas, mosaics, and an important ferry link to mainland Italy.

Sorso and Sennori: Traditional agricultural villages known for olive oil, wine, and beautiful countryside settings.

Ploaghe and Osilo: High hilltop towns offering traditional Sardinian life, ancient churches, and sweeping views.

Gastronomy: A Feast of Flavors

Food in Sassari province reflects its agricultural roots and seafaring traditions:

Fainè: A chickpea flour pancake, introduced by Genoese sailors and now a local specialty.

Porceddu: Slow, roasted suckling pig, seasoned with myrtle and herbs, a Sardinian icon.

Casu Marzu: The infamous "rotten cheese," a strong, flavored local delicacy for the adventurous.

Seafood Dishes: Fresh lobster, bottarga (cured fish roe), and octopus salad are staples along the coast.

Wine: Sassari’s vineyards produce robust reds like Cannonau and elegant whites like Vermentino.

Food festivals ("sagre") are common, where travelers can taste local products straight from farmers and producers.

Practical Travel Tips

How to Reach Sassari: Fly into Alghero, Fertilia Airport, just 25 minutes from Sassari city, or ferry into Porto Torres from Genoa or Marseille.

Getting Around: A car is essential to explore the countryside and hidden beaches.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal, offering warm weather, fewer crowds, and vivid natural colors.

Where to Stay: Choose between historic city hotels in Sassari, agriturismi (farm stays) in the countryside, or seaside resorts near Stintino and Castelsardo.

Conclusion: Why Visit the Province of Sassari?

The Province of Sassari is not just a place, it’s a living story of Sardinia’s ancient soul and vibrant present. Whether you're wandering through medieval alleys, lounging on a beach that feels like a dream, hiking through wilderness sanctuaries, or savoring a rustic meal under olive trees, Sassari offers a Sardinia that is authentic, profound, and unforgettable.

If you seek the real heart of Sardinia, timeless, beautiful, and proud, you will find it here in Sassari.

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Flag of Sardinia
Flag of Sardinia
  • Regional Information

    • Area: 24,090 km²
      Population: 1.6 million
      Density: 69/km²
      Capital: Cagliari

      National Parks:
      Archipelago of La Maddalena National Park
      Asinara National Park
      Gennargentu National Park
Location of Sardinia
Location of Sardinia
Provinces of Sardinia
Provinces of Sardinia
  • Comunes of Sardinia
    • Cagliari
      • Assemini
        Cagliari
        Capoterra
        Decimomannu
        Elmas
        Maracalagonis
        Monserrato
        Pula, Sardinia
        Quartu Sant'Elena
        Quartucciu
        Sarroch
        Selargius
        Sestu
        Settimo San Pietro
        Sinnai
        Uta, Sardinia
        Villa San Pietro

    • Nuoro
      • Aritzo
        Arzana
        Atzara
        Austis
        Bari Sardo
        Baunei
        Belvì
        Birori
        Bitti
        Bolotana
        Borore
        Bortigali
        Cardedu
        Desulo
        Dorgali
        Dualchi
        Elini
        Fonni
        Gadoni
        Gairo
        Galtellì
        Gavoi
        Girasole
        Ilbono
        Irgoli
        Jerzu
        Lanusei
        Lei
        Loceri
        Loculi
        Lodè
        Lodine
        Lotzorai
        Lula
        Mamoiada
        Meana Sardo
        Noragugume
        Nuoro
        Oliena
        Ollolai
        Olzai
        Onanì
        Onifai
        Oniferi
        Orani
        Orgosolo
        Orosei
        Orotelli
        Ortueri
        Orune
        Osidda
        Osini
        Ottana
        Ovodda
        Perdasdefogu
        Posada
        Santa Maria Navarrese
        Sarule
        Silanus
        Sindia
        Siniscola
        Sorgono
        Talana
        Tertenia
        Teti
        Tiana
        Tonara
        Torpè
        Tortolì
        Triei
        Ulassai
        Urzulei
        Ussassai
        Villagrande Strisaili

    • Oristano
      • Abbasanta
        Aidomaggiore
        Albagiara
        Ales
        Allai
        Arborea
        Ardauli
        Assolo
        Asuni
        Baradili
        Baratili San Pietro
        Baressa
        Bauladu
        Bidonì
        Bonarcado
        Boroneddu
        Bosa
        Busachi
        Cabras
        Cuglieri
        Curcuris
        Flussio
        Fordongianus
        Ghilarza
        Gonnoscodina
        Gonnosnò
        Gonnostramatza
        Laconi
        Magomadas
        Marrubiu
        Masullas
        Milis
        Modolo
        Mogorella
        Mogoro
        Montresta
        Morgongiori
        Narbolia
        Neoneli
        Norbello
        Nughedu Santa Vittoria
        Nurachi
        Nureci
        Ollastra
        Oristano
        Palmas Arborea
        Pau
        Paulilatino
        Pompu
        Riola Sardo
        Ruinas
        Sagama
        Samugheo
        San Nicolò d'Arcidano
        San Vero Milis
        Santa Giusta
        Santu Lussurgiu
        Scano di Montiferro
        Sedilo
        Seneghe
        Senis
        Sennariolo
        Siamaggiore
        Siamanna
        Siapiccia
        Simala
        Simaxis
        Sini
        Siris
        Soddì
        Solarussa
        Sorradile
        Suni
        Tadasuni
        Terralba
        Tinnura
        Torre del Pozzo
        Tramatza
        Tresnuraghes
        Ula Tirso
        Uras
        Usellus
        Villa Sant'Antonio
        Villa Verde
        Villanova Truschedu
        Villaurbana
        Zeddiani
        Zerfaliu

    • Sassari
      • Aggius
        Aglientu
        Alà dei Sardi
        Alghero
        Anela
        Ardara
        Arzachena
        Badesi
        Banari
        Benetutti
        Berchidda
        Bessude
        Bonnanaro
        Bono
        Bonorva
        Bortigiadas
        Borutta
        Bottidda
        Buddusò
        Budoni
        Bultei
        Bulzi
        Burgos
        Cala Burantino
        Cala di Volpe
        Calangianus
        Cargeghe
        Castelsardo
        Cheremule
        Chiaramonti
        Codrongianos
        Cossoine
        Erula
        Esporlatu
        Florinas
        Giave
        Golfo Aranci
        Illorai
        Ittireddu
        Ittiri
        La Maddalena
        Laerru
        Loiri Porto San Paolo
        Luogosanto
        Luras
        Mara
        Martis
        Monteleone Rocca Doria
        Monti
        Mores
        Muros
        Nughedu San Nicolò
        Nule
        Nulvi
        Olbia
        Olmedo
        Oschiri
        Osilo
        Ossi
        Ozieri
        Padria
        Padru
        Palau
        Pattada
        Perfugas
        Ploaghe
        Porto Torres
        Pozzomaggiore
        Putifigari
        Romana
        San Teodoro
        Santa Maria Coghinas
        Santa Teresa Gallura
        Sant'Antonio di Gallura
        Sassari
        Sedini
        Semestene
        Sennori
        Siligo
        Sorso
        Stintino
        Telti
        Tempio Pausania
        Tergu
        Thiesi
        Tissi
        Torralba
        Trinità d'Agultu e Vignola
        Tula
        Uri
        Usini
        Valledoria
        Viddalba
        Villanova Monteleone

    • Sud Sardegna
      • Arbus
        Armungia
        Ballao
        Barrali
        Barumini
        Buggerru
        Burcei
        Calasetta
        Carbonia
        Carloforte
        Castiadas
        Collinas
        Decimoputzu
        Dolianova
        Domus de Maria
        Domusnovas
        Donori
        Escalaplano
        Escolca
        Esterzili
        Fluminimaggiore
        Furtei
        Genoni
        Genuri
        Gergei
        Gesico
        Gesturi
        Giba
        Goni
        Gonnesa
        Gonnosfanadiga
        Guamaggiore
        Guasila
        Guspini
        Iglesias
        Isili
        Las Plassas
        Lunamatrona
        Mandas
        Masainas
        Monastir
        Muravera
        Musei
        Narcao
        Nuragus
        Nurallao
        Nuraminis
        Nurri
        Nuxis
        Orroli
        Ortacesus
        Pabillonis
        Pauli Arbarei
        Perdaxius
        Pimentel
        Piscinas
        Portoscuso
        Sadali
        Samassi
        Samatzai
        San Basilio
        San Gavino Monreale
        San Giovanni Suergiu
        San Nicolò Gerrei
        San Sperate
        San Vito
        Sanluri
        Santadi
        Sant'Andrea Frius
        Sant'Anna Arresi
        Sant'Antioco
        Sardara
        Segariu
        Selegas
        Senorbì
        Serdiana
        Serramanna
        Serrenti
        Serri
        Setzu
        Seui
        Seulo
        Siddi
        Siliqua
        Silius
        Siurgus Donigala
        Soleminis
        Suelli
        Teulada
        Tratalias
        Tuili
        Turri
        Ussana
        Ussaramanna
        Vallermosa
        Villacidro
        Villamar
        Villamassargia
        Villanova Tulo
        Villanovaforru
        Villanovafranca
        Villaperuccio
        Villaputzu
        Villasalto
        Villasimius
        Villasor
        Villaspeciosa

Hotels in Sardinia
Hotels in Sardinia
SardiniaWEATHER
Sardinia Climate (Cagliari)
  High Low Sun Rain
Jan 9 2 3 55
Feb 11 3 4 53
Mar 13 4 5 63
Apr 17 7 6 55
May 21 11 8 35
Jun 25 15 9 44
Jul 28 17 10 34
Aug 28 17 9 54
Sep 25 14 7 61
Oct 20 11 6 74
Nov 15 8 4 71
Dec 12 3 3 77
Table Key:
High - Average monthly high temperatures
Low - Average monthly low temperatures
Sun - Average hours of sunshine per day
Rain - Average monthly rainfall in mm
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