Palau, Coastal municipality in northern Sardinia, Italy
Palau is a municipality along the northeastern coast of Sardinia featuring alternating sandy beaches, rocky sections, and granite formations along the Mediterranean. The municipal area includes several beaches such as Sciumara, Porto Faro, and Isolotto, connected by regular transport services to other Sardinian destinations.
The settlement was founded in 1875 by shepherds from Tempio Pausania and gained independence as a separate municipality in 1959. During this period, it grew from a small hamlet into an independent coastal community.
Residents speak the Gallurese dialect and celebrate the Santa Maria delle Grazie festival each September with traditional music and local customs. These gatherings reflect how the community keeps its maritime heritage and traditions alive.
The place is well connected by public transport that brings visitors to various beaches and destinations throughout the region. The best time to visit is from April through October, when the weather is mild and beaches are easily accessible.
Monte Altura is a fortress built between 1887 and 1889 outside the village that offers views across the sea toward the Maddalena archipelago. This restored fortification shows how coastal defense shaped the area's development during that period.
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