Alghero - Sardinia

One of the most popular tourist resorts in Sardinia, Alghero is located on the north-western coast of the island.

History
The Catalan Aragonese stole the town from the dominion of Genoa. It was colonized by the Catalani family in the 14th century and they called it "Barceloneta," little Barcelona, giving it mighty fortifications that still characterize its landscape. Even today the locals speak a dialect strongly linked to the Catalan language.

Sights
During the summer Alghero stages the "Estate Musicale Algherese," a series of concerts in the cloisters of the Chiesa di San Francesco, the town's most beautiful church. Near Alghero there are the enchanting Grotte di Nettuno, fascinating and at the same time eerie caves that were geologically formed. The caves are reached by sea with regular boats for a small amount of money. The best beaches to tan at are the Spiaggia San Giovanni and the Spiaggia di Maria Pia, located in the north and accessible by bus.

Tips
The town is absolutely jammed during the summer so if you wish to go you should plan your trip months ahead.

Transportation
Alghero can be reached directly by plane.

Links: http://www.comune.alghero.ss.it
http://www.emmeti.it/Welcome/Sardegna/Alghero/index.uk.html