Alghero Cathedral, Alghero, Italy

Alghero was designated as a diocesan seat in 1503 but construction work on the cathedral did not begin until 1567. It was inaugurated in 1593 but was not finished. After several restorations it was consecrated in 1730.

The church was originally in Catalan-Gothic style, as can be seen in the five chapels and ambulatory of the presbytery, which also includes the octagonal base of the bell tower. The nave and the two aisles are however in Late Renaissance style. The main altar was designed by the Genovese artist Giuseppe Massetti (1727): the sculpture shows Mary the Immaculate flanked by angels. He also designed the ambulatory and the pulpit. In 1862 a Neo-Classical narthex was added to the façade, which dramatically changed its appearance.

The first chapel on the right side is dedicated to the Blessed Sacrament. Its imposing, marble altar was inaugurated in 1824. It is located inside a circular temple, reminding the Temple of Vesta in Rome.

The cathedral is the burial site of the Italian-born Duke of Montferrat (1762-1799) and his brother Count of Asti (1766-1802) who died on the island having caught malaria. The marble mausoleum was sculpted by Felice Festa in the early 19th century.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Plamen Kolev (12 months ago)
The wedding was planned there, when we visited, few years ago. All inside was prepared for this important moment. And how happy the bride is looking, and not only she...

datom1k (2 years ago)
It is not possible to enter the bell tower. There is absolutely no information, just closed tower door.

Brendan McGrath (2 years ago)
In Italy there are some remarkable cathedrals. From the outside, this isn't one of them. However, take a walk inside, light a candle and say a prayer. The cathedral grows on you because of its unstated beauty and tranquility. Give it a chance to impress you and it will.

Alan Grogan (3 years ago)
Such a beautiful cathedral. It recently finished an 8 year long restoration. It has many fascinating objects, sculptures and paintings. My favourite was the two white marble lions at the front of the alter leading down to the main aisle.

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