Polish Orthodox Church, Alghero

The Polish Orthodox Church, dedicated to Santa Barbara, is a hidden gem in the heart of Alghero. Located on Carlo Alberto Street, this modest yet historically rich church blends in seamlessly with the surrounding buildings, making it easy to miss if you’re not paying close attention. The first recorded mention of the church dates back to 1526, though evidence suggests its origins lie in the 14th century. It was originally dedicated to Saint Andrew and was situated near a tower bearing the same name, part of the Genoese-era city walls.

The church's sandstone façade, with its distinctive inflected arch, welcomes visitors into a room covered by a barrel vault, which leads to a pentagonal apse. Inside, valuable icons from the 11th and 16th centuries adorn the space, giving it a serene and sacred atmosphere. These icons, along with the finely crafted wooden ambo and other sacred decorations, create a reverent atmosphere despite the church's small size. The altar was consecrated in 1995 by the Primate of the Polish Orthodox Church, Metropolitan Sava of Warsaw, marking a significant moment in the church's history.

Since 2008, the church has been under the ownership of the Orthodox Archdiocese of Italy, and it remains the only Polish Orthodox church in Sardinia. Services are held both in the morning and evening, offering a spiritual refuge for locals and visitors alike.

After centuries of neglect and use as a warehouse, the church was carefully restored, thanks to the dedication of Monsignor Ambrogio Melzi, Archimandrite of the Alghero Orthodox church. Today, it stands as a symbol of devotion, art, and history, offering a glimpse into both the religious and cultural heritage of the Orthodox community in Sardinia.