Palau: A Rich History in Northeastern Sardinia

Palau is a charming little town that stretches for about 24 km along the northeastern coast of Sardinia, in one of the island's most picturesque stretches. What to See Here you can admire one of nature’s most famous “works of art”—the Roccia dell’Orso, located on the promontory of the same name at an elevation of about 120 meters above sea level, offering a breathtaking view of Palau and the nearby La Maddalena archipelago. In 1993, the Rock of the Bear was designated a National Monument. In the “Li Mizzani” area, a well-preserved archaeological site is home to the Tombs of the Giants and the remains of the Nuraghe Luchia. Directions: About 6 km from the restaurant La Vecchia Gallura. A must-see stop is Porto Rafael, a small, charming village built by the creative Count Raphael de Neville in the 1960s, consisting of white buildings that emerge from among the Mediterranean scrub and granite boulders, overlooking the La Maddalena archipelago. Places to visit: the very popular Piazzetta, near the beach; the charming little church dedicated to Saint Rita; and Count Raphael’s house. At the Palau Ethnographic Museum, ancient artifacts are on display in two large halls, organized into thematic sections: the home, viticulture, agriculture, animal husbandry, transportation, and crafts. Montiggia - Phone: 0789 770822/0789 770886 – Hours: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Several military units were also present:

The Monte Altura Battery, located northwest of the town in an extremely scenic spot, offers a beautiful view that stretches across the surrounding islands all the way to Corsica. It is in excellent condition and open for guided tours (approximately 45 minutes); During the summer season, it hosts concerts and cultural events. Easily accessible via the road leading to Porto Rafael. April 1 through October 15 — 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (hours are subject to change depending on the month)

The Talmone Military Battery: Nestled amid unspoiled, wild nature, it stands as an important testament to our country’s military history. It is part of a defensive system consisting of about fifty forts, outposts, and military batteries. Directions: From Palau, head up to Monte Altura, then continue toward Costa Serena until you reach Punta Don Diego – Hours: Saturday 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. – Sunday 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

The Capo d’Orso Fortress: one of the most spectacular military fortresses in the Mediterranean; A granite complex consisting of 8 farmhouses, an entrance bridge guarded by a sentry box, an artillery battery with designated emplacements, barracks for officers and troops, powder magazines, stables, and, at the top of the hill, the parade ground overlooking the Maddalena Archipelago and the coast of Arzachena. Directions: Follow the signs to Capo d'Orso. Leave your car in the parking lot (paid parking during the season) and continue on foot.

The Baragge Battery, a late 19th-century structure located on the hill of the same name, is a two-story building. On the lower floor, the numbered dormitories and storage rooms; The upper level featured shelters and walkways providing access to the artillery positions. The structure is in excellent condition but overgrown with vegetation. How to get there: From Palau, follow the signs for Strada Panoramica Baragge until you reach a lookout point overlooking the archipelago. Then continue down the hill toward Capo d'Orso, and after about 100 meters, take a dirt path on the right that is accessible only on foot. Fun Facts The Palau area is home to 20 beaches of the finest sand, interspersed with enchanting stretches of granite coastline shaped by time and wind.