Bastione di Saint Remy (Saint Remy Bastion), Cagliari (must see)

The Saint Remy Bastion is one of Cagliari’s most iconic landmarks, towering over Piazza Costituzione as a grand architectural masterpiece. Built in the late 19th century, the bastion was named after Filippo Guglielmo Pallavicino delle Frabose, the first viceroy of Savoy in the Kingdom of Sardinia. It was constructed in white limestone atop medieval defensive walls when Cagliari ceased to function as a military stronghold. The neoclassical-style structure features majestic Corinthian columns, a triumphal arch, and two grand staircases leading to an expansive terrace that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline.

The Saint Remy Bastion serves as a symbolic gateway between the Villanova district and the fortified Castello quarter, seamlessly blending history and urban elegance. Its large terrace, known as the Umberto I Terrace, spans 4,600 square meters and offers sweeping views over Cagliari’s skyline, including the Molentargius-Saline Natural Park, Poetto Beach, and Monte Urpinu.

Beneath the terrace lies the Umberto I Gallery, often called the "covered walk", featuring a series of arched windows that illuminate the vast interior space. Originally designed as a banquet hall, the gallery has since played various roles, serving as an infirmary during World War I, a government office, and later, a prestigious cultural exhibition space. Today, it hosts artistic and historical exhibitions, adding yet another layer to the bastion’s diverse history.

As one of Cagliari’s most important cultural and historical sites, the Saint Remy Bastion is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the city. Whether you ascend its grand staircases or take the free elevator from Viale Regina Elena, the journey to the top is rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of the city's deep-rooted history. As night falls, the bastion becomes a romantic setting, perfect for watching the sunset before heading to dinner in the vibrant Marina neighborhood, where the streets come alive with restaurants, music, and the scents of Sardinian cuisine.