Palazzo Civico (Civic Palace), Cagliari

The Civic Palace of Cagliari, the seat of the municipal government, is a striking example of early 20th-century architecture, blending Aragonese Gothic style with Liberty-style decorations. Built from white limestone, the palace stands prominently along Via Roma, overlooking the port, symbolizing a city that has shifted from fortification to openness.

Originally, the municipal seat was located in Piazza Palazzo, within the fortified Castello district, offering protection in times of conflict. However, under the guidance of Ottone Bacaredda, a visionary mayor at the turn of the 20th century, the headquarters moved to its current location in Marina district, a growing cultural and economic hub. The new Civic Palace reflects Cagliari’s evolution, embracing a more outward-facing identity while still preserving its deep-rooted traditions.

Inside the palace, visitors can admire an array of artistic and historical treasures, each room offering a unique glimpse into Sardinian heritage. One of the most remarkable spaces is the Wedding Room, featuring a stunning mural cycle by Filippo Figari, painted between 1912 and 1914. This vibrant artwork celebrates Sardinian love and tradition, depicting rural life, traditional clothing, and colorful landscapes. Figari spent time in Busachi, an area known for its strong agro-pastoral culture, to capture the essence of Sardinia in his work. His murals, far from being mere folklore, present a powerful and romanticized vision of the island, highlighting its vitality and beauty.

The Mayor’s Room is another highlight, dominated by a grand Flemish tapestry by Francesco Spiringius, measuring 4.5 meters high and 7 meters wide, a masterpiece of 16th-century Brussels craftsmanship. Opposite, a large canvas by Giovanni Marghinotti pays tribute to King Carlo Felice of Savoy, who was responsible for Sardinia’s first major road network, based on ancient Roman routes.

Another prestigious chamber within the Civic Palace is the Sabauda Room, now serving as the office of the vice-mayor. The room’s red and gold furnishings, complemented by three grand portraits of the Savoy monarchs painted by Giovanni Marghinotti, exude an atmosphere of noble authority. A particularly significant piece in the room is a miniature replica of the chariot used in the Sagra di Sant’Efisio, the grand religious festival celebrated every May 1st, when the statue of Sant’Efisio is paraded through the city in a time-honored tradition.