Oristano, Provincial capital in western Sardinia, Italy.
Description
Oristano is a town in the province of Oristano on the west coast of Sardinia, spreading across flat land between lagoons and the sea. Streets run through residential neighborhoods with traditional houses, and modern buildings stand beside churches and historic squares that form the center.
History
The settlement began in the eleventh century when coastal inhabitants moved inland to escape Arab raids. It became the capital of the Judicate of Arborea and held this role for over three centuries, until the judicate came under Aragonese rule.
Culture
The name evolved from the medieval term Aristanis, referring to the lagoon landscape that surrounded the area. Today the narrow streets of the old center recall the time when fishermen and craftsmen lived and worked here, while the open squares still serve as gathering places.
Practical
The old center can be explored on foot, and most sights lie within walking distance of each other. Buses run regularly to the surrounding lagoons and beaches, which are a few kilometers away.
Did you know?
During Carnival, riders in the Sa Sartiglia tournament wear historic costumes and black masks that fully conceal their faces. The lead rider is symbolically transformed into an androgynous deity embodying the transition from winter to spring.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Province of Oristano).
Santa Giusta Cathedral
3 km
Cathedral of Oristano
369 m
Museo Civico Giovanni Marongiu
6 km
Torre di Mariano II
10 mMuseo civico di Cabras
5.7 km
San Francesco
272 mCastello di Casa di Regno
6.2 kmChiesa del Carmine
323 m
Torre Grande Lighthouse
6.4 km
San Simaco
8.7 km
Antiquarium arborense
178 m
Maria Assunta
6.2 km
San Teodoro
11 km
San Gregorio
9.4 km
Tower of Portixedda
338 m
San Pietro Apostolo (Solarussa)
8.8 km
San Giovanni
11.4 km
San Nicolò di Mira
10.9 km
Chiesa delle Anime
8.8 km
Chiesa di San Paolo Apostolo
794 m
Santissima Trasfigurazione
11.5 km
Tower of Su Pottu
7 km
Scaiu Ecciu
6.2 km
Santa Maria Stella Maris
6.3 km
Museo Diocesano Arborense
370 m
Santo Spirito
5.9 km
Spiaggia di Torregrande
6.4 kmBasilica of Our Lady of Remedies
2.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes