text Ginevra Beretta
What to do and see in Luogosanto
Discovering one of the most religious villages in Sardinia
On the slopes of the Ghjuanni Mountains in north-eastern Sardinia stands the village of Luogosanto. Its history began in the 13th century thanks to the Franciscan friars, who built it in order to create a place entirely dedicated to prayer and meditation. Here they also built the convent, one of the first ones built while St Francis was still alive.
The name comes from the Latin ‘Locus Santus’, literally ‘holy place’, and derives from the presence of some sanctuaries and numerous country churches, which have made this place a pilgrimage destination. Every rock oozes with religious faith, carried by traditions, country festivals and commemorations.
About 40 km from Porto Cervo (click here to discover what to eat and waht to do in Porto Cervo), Luogosanto is located along the road linking Calangianus and Arzachena (click here to discover what to eat and what to do in Arzachena), becoming an unmissable stop in Gallura.
Luogosanto (ph. Dario Garofalo)What to see in Luogosanto
Medieval Palace of Lu Baldu
The history of the palace's construction is shrouded in mystery, fuelled by two legends handed down over the centuries. The first says that the building was erected in the 13th century to celebrate the birth of the eldest son of the Ubaldo family, while the second claims that it was the son, in 1238, who wanted it built as a tribute to the memory of his father. Today, although the castle has suffered destruction throughout history, some significant parts still remain standing, such as the towers, external staircase, lower level and courtyard, making it a valuable archaeological site to visit.
Sanctuary of Nostra Signora
The Sanctuary, built around 1218 by Franciscan monks on the hill of San Trano, is linked to an evocative legend. It is said that Our Lady appeared to two monks, revealing to them the location of the relics of Saints Nicholas and Trano, two hermits who lived there around 500 AD.In 1227, Pope Honorius III elevated the church to a minor basilica, and in the same year the remains of the two saints were found. During the 18th century, the basilica underwent a major restoration, during which the Holy Door was built. Initially made of stone, it was later replaced by a bronze version by the artist Luca Luchetti. The Holy Door is opened only once every seven years and remains open for twelve consecutive months. Near the basilica, there are two chapels, dedicated to Saints Nicholas and Trano, which complete this place of deep spirituality and tradition.
Luogosanto (ph. Dario Garofalo)Patrizia's herbalist shop
Not far from the sanctuary is Patrizia's herbalist shop, one of the few professional herbalists in Sardinia. Patrizia will host you in her garden, where you can learn the secrets of Sardinia's endemic plants. Here you can also have a tasting of the wines and herbal teas produced by the owner herself. The herbalist shop is located precisely in Strada de La China 80, 07020, which is un unmissable leg for those who want to live an autentic and natural experience..
Church of San Trano
The small church of San Trano is nestled in the Gallura countryside, nestled among the rocks. Despite its simple décor, the church always impresses its visitors, thanks to the panorama that surrounds it, offering a sensation full of peace and serenity . Not far away is the Church of Santo Stefano, built in the 12th century, and the ruins of the castle of the same name.
Country Churchies
The territory surrounding Luogosanto is studded with small churches (twenty in total), each named after the saint to whom it is dedicated. They are churches with a rather simple construction, which in the past were used as places of worship by the inhabitants; today they are only kept alive thanks to traditional religious festivals. It is possible to visit almost all of them by following evocating trekking routes, which allow to visit the Gallurese countryside. Among the most important is the Church of St Leonard, which was built next to the castle of Balaiana (of which only a few ruins remain today). The church overlooks the surrounding area from the top of a hill; thanks to this, the view is breathtaking, offering a unique experience, where history, faith and nature blend with armony.
Luogosanto (ph. Dario Garofalo)Moon Valley
If you want to enjoy a day immersed in nature, the Moon Valley is for you. You can admire the panorama along a scenic road of around 60 km, which is especially good for cycling.
Where to eat in Luogosanto
La Quercia della Gallura
Strada Provinciale SP 14, 07020, Luogosanto
+39 340 405 1440
La Quercia della Gallura is an agritourism that takes care to offer local products at zero kilometre, garanteeing a memorable and eco-friendly experience. The family-run agriturismo offers a wide choice: from hors d'oeuvres of cured meats and cheeses, to the traditional porcetto allo spiedo, you can enjoy typical Gallura cuisine surrounded by a spectacular natural landscape.
La Quercia della GalluraLa Bottega dei Sapori
Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 28, 07020, Luogosanto
+39 347 523 3631
La Bottega dei Sapori offers the typical products of Gallura cuisine, through flavours linked to history and tradition. Wines, cold meats, cheeses and desserts, here you will find only the best products, all in an exclusive location in the ancient medieval village. In addition to tasting menus for aperitifs and dinners, it will be possible to buy traditional Sardinian products.
How to get to Luogosanto from Porto Cervo
Starting from Porto Cervo, head north-west along Via Sa Conca towards the piazzetta del Cervo. From here, turn left and take the SP59. After 4.3 km, you will reach a roundabout: take the second exit and continue along the SP59. Continue for another 8.9 km to a second roundabout, where you will have to take the second exit again to join the SP14. Follow the SP14 for 21.4 km to Luogosanto. The journey will take you through typical Gallura landscapes, giving you an authentic taste of Sardinia.