Bastion Saint Remy, Neoclassical bastion in Castello district, Cagliari, Italy
Bastion Saint Remy is a neoclassical fortification in Cagliari's Castello district built from limestone that rises 24 meters above street level. The structure features a monumental staircase, interior galleries, and a panoramic terrace for viewing the city.
The monumental stairway and triumphal arch were built between 1899 and 1903 by Giuseppe Picchi to a design by Giuseppe Costa, drawn up in 1876 and promoted by mayor Ottone Bacaredda. They replaced the sixteenth-century Spanish bastions of Santa Caterina, dello Sperone and della Zecca, demolished after the fortress status ended in 1866. American bombs destroyed the arch and part of the steps on 17 February 1943; rebuilding ran from 1955 to 1958.
The bastion houses exhibition spaces where regional artists display their works and local organizations host cultural events throughout the year. These spaces bring together the creative community and offer visitors a chance to see contemporary art and local talent.
You can reach the Umberto I terrace by elevator from Piazza Yenne or by climbing stairs from Piazza Costituzione. Visit in early morning or late afternoon when light is best for enjoying the views and avoiding crowds.
The 1927 fountain installed here featured a Roman eagle, in line with Fascist symbolism. It broke under water pressure on its first day and flooded Piazza Costituzione, so it was removed the next day and replaced by a banana tree that still stands there.
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