Revitalization of Southern Sardinia
For quite some time, the vibrancy of southern Sardinia has been lacking—many attribute this to the decline of the region’s ancient Nuragic civilization, which thrived during the Bronze Age. However, in Cagliari, the island’s charming capital, a palpable new energy is emerging, breathing life into both the city and the surrounding countryside. “We used to perceive ourselves as quaint and somewhat isolated, trapped in this island backwater,” shared Venturino Vargiu, a local historian, as we observed the annual folk costume celebration of Sant’Efisio. “Yet, we Sardinians are beginning to realize that our culture holds significant value, both for ourselves and for visitors.”
Cagliari is experiencing a resurgence of pride accompanied by a wave of new developments aimed at attracting the ever-growing number of tourists to the region. In the rapidly evolving Marina neighborhood—a former fishing hub that has transformed into a vibrant blend of immigrants and long-standing residents—a new promenade designed by architect Stefano Boeri is set to create lush parkland along the waterfront. Additionally, a light-rail line will soon connect the Marina with Cagliari’s picturesque hinterlands. A new port, projected to be completed by 2026, is also under construction to facilitate the docking of cruise ships farther away, allowing luxury yachts to anchor in the heart of Cagliari and contribute to its economy.
One of the main draws in southern Sardinia is its pristine beaches, which stretch along a coastline of stunning white sands and sparkling turquoise waters. The miles-long Poetto Beach, located near Cagliari, stands out as a prime example of the region’s natural beauty.
As Cagliari and the southern coast prepare for an influx of tourism, there lies a delicate balance to be struck. This region, characterized by its breathtaking coastline and idyllic landscapes, faces the challenge of ensuring that tourism serves as a boon rather than a bane to its local communities. In the past, the northern Costa Smeralda evolved into a luxurious resort destination for the affluent—a transformation that exemplified how tourism can sometimes overwhelm an area.
The pressing question remains: can a more sustainable and harmonious model of tourism be developed in the south? With overtourism becoming a significant concern for many popular Italian destinations, I traveled to the area to engage with locals and explore their visions for a better, more balanced future.
