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Cathedral · Alghero, Sardenha
Cattedrale di Santa Maria
Alghero Cathedral, begun in the 16th century, with an octagonal Gothic–Catalan bell tower, a Renaissance interior and a 19th-century neoclassical façade.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cattedrale di Santa Maria
The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Immacolata is the cathedral of the diocese of Alghero-Bosa. Construction began in the 1530s, after Alghero was elevated to a city and diocesan seat, and continued for centuries, which explains the mixture of styles.
The bell tower, at the rear of the church, is the symbol of the historic centre: an octagonal tower in Gothic–Catalan style, with ogival windows and a pyramidal spire covered in coloured ceramics. At its base is a decorated Gothic portal visible from the street.
The interior has three naves and a Latin cross plan, with Renaissance vaults and an octagonal dome over the presbytery from the 17th century. The church was reconsecrated in 1730, already with marble altars.
The main façade, with a portico of Doric columns, was erected in 1862 in neoclassical style and opens onto the small Piazza Duomo.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 40 minutes.
Best time
In the morning, outside mass times. The bell tower may have its own visiting hours: check before you go.
How to get there
It is located in Piazza Duomo, in the historic centre, a few minutes' walk from the harbour and the Torre di Porta Terra.
Tip
Shoulders and knees covered to enter. To photograph the bell tower, walk around the church via Via Roma.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cattedrale di Santa Maria
Which part of the cathedral is the oldest?
The apse, with the choir, the radial chapels and the Gothic-Catalan bell tower, completed around 1550.
Do you need appropriate clothing?
Yes. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter.
Why does the façade look newer?
Because it was rebuilt in 1862 in a Neoclassical style, replacing the earlier Renaissance façade.