About
The Castello Quarter is the historic walled citadel at the heart of Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia. It is the oldest part of the city, sitting on a hill above the modern streets and harbour, and it is known locally as Casteddu de Susu or Quartiere Castello.
Walking here feels like stepping back into another era. The quarter's medieval streets are narrow and winding, lined with ancient buildings, and they reward a slow pace: stop to look at a doorway, a stone wall, or a quiet courtyard as you go. Because the citadel rises above the rest of the city, it also offers spectacular views over Cagliari and the surrounding area, which makes it a good place to pause and look out.
What a visit offers
- Medieval streets to explore on foot, best taken without a fixed route.
- Ancient buildings that reflect the long history of the old town.
- Panoramic views across the city from the higher parts of the citadel.
Planning your visit
The quarter is in the Castello district of Cagliari, with the postal address Castello, 09124 Cagliari CA, Italy. Since the streets are steep and uneven, comfortable shoes are a sensible choice. Allow time to wander rather than rushing between points, and combine your visit with other parts of the city, which are easy to reach from the lower streets.
For visitors interested in the layers of history in Sardinia's capital, the Castello Quarter is an appealing place to start, and a natural first stop for anyone who wants to understand where Cagliari began.