Strictly Sardinia – “Cagliari Hidden Gems (By A Local)”

Host: Claudia Tavani
Episode Date: December 11, 2025

Episode Overview

In this engaging episode, Claudia Tavani, the Sardinian-born host and travel blogger, takes listeners on a guided tour through the lesser-known corners of Cagliari, the vibrant capital of Sardinia. Drawing on her lifelong connection to the city, Claudia shares her personal favorite off-the-beaten-path sites and hidden gems, providing rich historical context, practical tips, and evocative memories that bring Cagliari to life through a local’s eyes.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Why Cagliari’s Hidden Gems?

• Claudia emphasizes that despite being a capital city, Cagliari doesn’t suffer from overwhelming tourist crowds like Rome or Florence, ensuring even famous locations feel authentic and unspoiled.
• Quote:
  “You can visit knowing that you don’t need to look for Cagliari hidden gems to escape the crowds and that your experience will be very much an authentic one in a city that has retained all of its local charm.” (03:22)

Hidden Gems in Cagliari

1. Necropolis of Tuvixeddu (03:50)

• The most famous necropolis in Sardinia, dating back to the Carthaginian and Roman eras.
• Notable for “pozzetto” tombs dug into rock, used as burial chambers.
• Free access, open daily—guided tours recommended for a deeper experience.

2. Fortino di Sant’Ignazio (06:03)

• Claudia’s personal favorite; an unfinished 18th-century fort on a hill.
• Offers panoramic sunset views and is near Calamosca Beach.
• Quote: “It’s free to access. You can visit whenever you want. It’s close to Calamosca beach... it’s an easy hike to get there. Along the walk you can admire views of Calamosca beach, the two Spanish watchtowers, and the lighthouse.” (07:11)

3. Villa di Tigellio (08:22)

• Ancient Roman site with three houses and a bath, located in the Stampace district.
• Currently closed for renovations but visible from the outside.
• Features columns and beautiful mosaics; near nightlife hub Corso Vittorio Manuela.

4. San Benedetto Market (09:32)

• Not exactly hidden, but the main hub where locals shop for fresh produce.
• Temporarily relocated to Piazza Nazari for renovations (as of March 2025).
• For an even more local experience: Mercato di Via Quirra.
• Quote:
  “If you want an even more local experience, you could visit the smaller Mercato di Via Quirra. It’s even more local.” (10:25)

Parks and Green Spaces

5. Giardini Pubblici (Public Gardens) (10:45)

• A charming 19th-century park between Villanova, Castello, and La Vega.
• Houses Galleria Comunale d’Arte; a childhood favorite of Claudia’s.
• “They are not big, but they are a pleasant place for a relaxing moment, especially in a hot summer evening. It’s one of my favorite childhood places.” (12:15)

6. Monte Urpinu Park (13:18)

• Larger park on a hill, walking distance from the center.
• Home to peacocks, swans, geese, tree frogs, turtles, a cat sanctuary.
• Offers stunning city and gulf views.
• “Today it is home to peacocks, swans, geese, tree frogs, turtles, and a cat sanctuary.” (14:10)

Waterfront Favorites

7. Marina Piccola (15:00)

• At the base of the Devil’s Saddle promontory, by Poetto Beach.
• Excellent spot year-round for sea breeze, walks, moments of relaxation, and potential dolphin sightings.
• Departure point for guided kayak tours of hidden coves.

8. Su Siccu (16:14)

• Small harbor adjacent to Cagliari’s main harbor, popular for sunset strolls.
• Lively with bars and restaurants, especially on weekends.

Unusual and Historic Sites

9. Cimitero di Bonaria (Bonaria Monumental Cemetery) (17:03)

• An “art gallery more than a simple cemetery,” rich in sculpture and architecture.
• Established in 1828; resting place of notable locals, including legendary footballer Gigi Riva.
• Entry is free; guided tours recommended to appreciate the art.

10. Santa Restituta Crypt (19:12)

• Ancient hypogeum beneath Santa Restituta church in Stampace.
• Used as a quarry by the Punics, later as pagan and Christian worship site, contains medieval frescoes.

11. Palazzo Viceregio (Viceroy's Palace) (20:07)

• 14th-century palace in Castello, former royal residence.
• Now houses municipal offices but open to visitors (guided tour recommended).
• “You can visit for a small admission fee that usually includes a guided tour... to admire the beautiful rooms and the art pieces inside.” (21:04)

12. Castello di San Michele (San Michele Castle) (22:19)

• Medieval castle atop San Michele hill within a well-loved park.
• Former private noble residence, military stronghold, and hospital.
• Offers city views, hosts exhibitions.

13. Passeggiata Coperta (Covered Walk) (23:56)

• Located in the Bastione di Saint Remy, symbol of Cagliari.
• Once an infirmary and WWII bomb shelter, now hosts special events and exhibitions.
• Small entry fee; direct access via Bastione staircase from Piazza Costituzione.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “Perhaps you’d like to discover some of the hidden gems of Cagliari. That’s what I’m here for.” (03:18)
• On San Benedetto Market:
  “There are many markets in Cagliari, but this is the best to buy fresh produce. As of March 2025, the market has been moved... because the building is undergoing renovations.” (09:32)
• Claudia’s personal note on Giardini Pubblici:
  “My dad used to bring me there to play and to meet other kids, as I said, it’s really lovely.” (12:27)
• “If you look closely, you may even spot dolphins.” (15:48)
• “It certainly feels like an art gallery more than a simple cemetery.” (17:14)

Suggested Itinerary Highlights

• History Buffs: Tuvixeddu Necropolis, Villa di Tigellio, Santa Restituta Crypt, Bonaria Cemetery, Castello di San Michele, Palazzo Viceregio, Passeggiata Coperta.
• Nature Lovers: Giardini Pubblici, Monte Urpinu, Marina Piccola, Su Siccu.
• Local Life Enthusiasts: San Benedetto Market, Mercato di Via Quirra.

Timestamps for Key Segments

| Segment | Timestamp | |-------------------------------------------|------------| | Welcome & Introduction | 01:29 | | Why Seek Hidden Gems? | 03:22 | | Necropolis of Tuvixeddu | 03:50 | | Fortino di Sant’Ignazio | 06:03 | | Villa di Tigellio | 08:22 | | San Benedetto Market & Mercato di Via Quirra| 09:32 | | Giardini Pubblici | 10:45 | | Monte Urpinu | 13:18 | | Marina Piccola | 15:00 | | Su Siccu | 16:14 | | Cimitero di Bonaria | 17:03 | | Santa Restituta Crypt | 19:12 | | Palazzo Viceregio | 20:07 | | Castello di San Michele | 22:19 | | Passeggiata Coperta | 23:56 |

Final Thoughts

Claudia’s local expertise, combined with her personal anecdotes and guidance, make this episode an invaluable resource for anyone longing to experience authentic Cagliari away from the well-trodden tourist paths. Her recommendations highlight the city’s depth, from ancient necropolises and Roman ruins to vibrant local markets, serene parks, and hauntingly beautiful cemeteries and crypts. For planning a memorable trip or simply experiencing Sardinia vicariously, Claudia’s “hidden gems” are sure to inspire.