Torre di San Pancrazio

The Torre di San Pancrazio, in Cagliari

The Torre di San Pancrazio is the highest tower of Cagliari and one of the symbols of the city, on the square of Independence. The Cagliari audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this first Pisan defensive construction of 1305, work of the architect Giovanni Capula, whose wall on the city side was knocked down to reveal the staircases, and whose upper platform offers a three hundred and sixty degree view of the city.

History

On the square of Independence, to the right of the gate, stands the Torre di San Pancrazio, the highest tower of Cagliari and one of the symbols of the city. It is the first defensive construction built by the Pisans, in 1305, and it culminates at thirty-six metres to see the enemy come from afar. Its architect, Giovanni Capula, would also realise the tower of the Elephant a few years later, as well as the tower of the Lion, recently renamed tower of the Eagle. Like its twin, the tower of Saint-Pancras is built in Pietra Forte, a white limestone of the neighbouring hills. It served as a defensive tower against the attacks of the Muslim Empire and the Republic of Genoa, and as an entrance gate to the citadel; from 1328, it became a storage place and military canteen for the officers, then, in the seventeenth century, a prison, before recovering its current appearance in the modern era. The wall on the old town side was knocked down, revealing the interior staircases: this opening can impress during the climb, and children under twelve are not admitted. But those who reach the upper platform are rewarded with a splendid three hundred and sixty degree view of Cagliari.

What to see

Here you admire the highest tower of Cagliari, first Pisan defensive construction of 1305, thirty-six metres high and signed Giovanni Capula; built in white limestone, in turn warehouse, military canteen and prison, it reveals its interior staircases since its wall on the city side was knocked down, and its platform offers a three hundred and sixty degree view. The Torre di San Pancrazio is a symbol of Cagliari. It is a fine stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Torre di San Pancrazio stands on the square of Independence, in the Castello district, in Cagliari, reachable on foot. The climb is paying, the hours vary, and access is not advised for people subject to vertigo as well as children under twelve. It is best to enquire before coming.

What is the highest tower of Cagliari?

It is the Torre di San Pancrazio, thirty-six metres high, first defensive construction built by the Pisans in 1305 and work of the architect Giovanni Capula; in turn warehouse, military canteen and prison, it today reveals its interior staircases and offers, from its platform, a three hundred and sixty degree view of the city.

Where is the Torre di San Pancrazio in Cagliari?

On the square of Independence, in the Castello district, in Cagliari, in Italy.