Torre di San Pancrazio

The Torre di San Pancrazio is a medieval fortified tower standing at the highest point of the Castello district, built from pale limestone blocks from a nearby quarry. The structure has a square shape with three solid walls fitted with defensive openings, while the fourth side faces Piazza Indipendenza.

Built in 1305 by Pisan architect Giovanni Capula, the tower was originally designed as a defensive stronghold for the Castello district. During Aragonese rule it was converted into a prison, marking a shift from its original military function to a different purpose.

The tower serves as a symbolic gateway to the Castello district, with its distinctive outline recognizable from across the city. Its elevated position creates a natural landmark that residents and visitors use to navigate and orient themselves in the historic area.

The tower is open to visitors on most days, with late morning being the best time when natural light shows its features clearly. Be aware that the interior has limited accessibility and climbing the narrow passages can be challenging for those with mobility restrictions.

The tower's walls are roughly 3 meters (10 feet) thick, demonstrating the engineering skill of medieval builders who designed structures built to last centuries. The numerous small windows distributed across the walls served dual purposes: allowing defenders to observe approaching threats and maintaining sightlines over the city below.

Location: Cagliari

Inception: 1305

Architects: Giovanni Capula

Height: 37 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Address: piazza dell' Indipendenza, 09124 Cagliari CA

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 09:00-17:00

Phone: +393200522083

Website: https://comune.cagliari.it/portale/page/it/torre_di_san_pancrazio

GPS coordinates: 39.22136,9.11671

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:48