Forte della Maddalena (Maddalena Fort), Alghero
Maddalena Fort stands as a historic sentinel to the north of Alghero’s old town. Constructed at the end of the 16th century, it is the sole survivor of three forts built to strengthen the city's land defenses. The fort's central tower, known as the Torre della Maddalena or Torre di Garibaldi, has medieval origins, adding a layer of historical depth to the structure.
The fort was originally dedicated to Mary Magdalene, a dedication that is still reflected in the presence of a statue of her at the site. However, the statue is now largely unrecognizable, having been eroded by the passage of time. Despite its weathered state, the fort continues to hold historical significance as a reminder of Alghero’s strategic military past.
In recent years, Forte della Maddalena has been repurposed as a cultural venue, hosting a variety of events throughout the summer months. Its picturesque setting makes it an ideal location for jazz festivals and outdoor classical music concerts, drawing both locals and visitors to its historic walls. The fort's transformation from a defensive stronghold to a vibrant cultural space reflects Alghero's evolving appreciation of its historical landmarks.
The fort was originally dedicated to Mary Magdalene, a dedication that is still reflected in the presence of a statue of her at the site. However, the statue is now largely unrecognizable, having been eroded by the passage of time. Despite its weathered state, the fort continues to hold historical significance as a reminder of Alghero’s strategic military past.
In recent years, Forte della Maddalena has been repurposed as a cultural venue, hosting a variety of events throughout the summer months. Its picturesque setting makes it an ideal location for jazz festivals and outdoor classical music concerts, drawing both locals and visitors to its historic walls. The fort's transformation from a defensive stronghold to a vibrant cultural space reflects Alghero's evolving appreciation of its historical landmarks.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Alghero. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Forte della Maddalena (Maddalena Fort) on Map
Sight Name: Forte della Maddalena (Maddalena Fort)
Sight Location: Alghero, Italy (See walking tours in Alghero)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Alghero, Italy (See walking tours in Alghero)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Alghero, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Alghero
Creating your own self-guided walk in Alghero is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Alghero Introduction Walking Tour
Alghero, a charming coastal town in Sardinia, Italy, is a unique historical place where the Sardinian and Catalan cultures united.
The area’s history stretches back way before Christian times. The Phoenicians arrived here in the 8th century BC, establishing a metalworking settlement called Saint Imbenia.
Later, this strategic Mediterranean location attracted the Genoese Doria family, who... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
The area’s history stretches back way before Christian times. The Phoenicians arrived here in the 8th century BC, establishing a metalworking settlement called Saint Imbenia.
Later, this strategic Mediterranean location attracted the Genoese Doria family, who... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Alghero's Old Palaces
Alghero, a historical gem on the northwest coast of Sardinia, is home to some of Italy's most significant architectural monuments. This is evident in the city's remarkable collection of old palaces, showcasing narratives that span centuries.
Carcassona Palace, dating back to the mid-1400s, stands out with its mix of influences from Valencia, Naples, Palermo, and Sardinia. A former... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
Carcassona Palace, dating back to the mid-1400s, stands out with its mix of influences from Valencia, Naples, Palermo, and Sardinia. A former... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles