Fortino di Sant'Ignazio, 18th-century military tower in Cagliari, Italy
Description
Fortino di Sant'Ignazio is a military tower on Sant'Elia hill built from stone with defense points positioned to overlook the surrounding waters and coast. The structure rises 94 meters above sea level and contains multiple levels and interior spaces designed for observation and protection.
History
The tower was built in 1792 as a defense measure during Savoy rule to protect against possible French attacks on the coast. It was part of a broader defensive strategy designed for the Cagliari region.
Culture
The site served as a military lookout over the bay and was repurposed for different needs as the city evolved. Today visitors can walk through the remains and experience the wide views across the water that made it strategically valuable.
Practical
You can reach the site on foot by following paths and routes that lead up Sant'Elia hill to the tower. Wear sturdy shoes since the paths are uneven and the terrain can be rough in places.
Did you know?
The original design called for four towers and 50 cannons, but construction stopped with only two towers completed and fewer artillery pieces installed. This reflects how military plans often shifted during construction and fell short of initial ambitions.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Cagliari).
Unipol Domus
1.1 km
Sella del Diavolo
1.7 km
Shrine of Our Lady of Bonaria
2.5 km
Basilica of San Saturnino
3.1 km
Monte Urpinu park
2.8 km
San Lucifero
3.2 km
Spiaggia di Calamosca
843 m
Chiesa di Sant'Eulalia
3.7 km
Lazzaretto di Cagliari
479 m
Chiesa di San Giacomo
3.6 km
Chiesa dei Santi Giorgio e Caterina
3 km
Santa Rosalia
3.6 km
Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola
3.6 km
Torre del Poetto
2 km
Torre di Calamosca
875 m
EXMA - Centro Comunale d'Arte e Cultura
3.3 km
Torre del Prezzemolo
574 m
Torre di Mezza Spiaggia
3.1 km
Chiesa Aragonese
3.1 km
Oratorio del Santissimo Crocifisso
3.6 km
Parco delle Rimembranze
3.3 km
Centro sperimentale per le arti e le culture contemporanee EXMA
3.3 km
Museo di Bonaria
2.5 km
Torre di Sant'Elia
1.8 km
Capo Sant'Elia lighthouse
858 m
Archivio di Stato di Cagliari
3.3 km
Basilica di Nostra Signora di Bonaria
2.5 km
Parco di Bonaria
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