Argentiera
Latest page update: 28 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The mining town of Argentiera is situated within the Sassari Province of Sardinia and has a population of around 70 residents. It's located on the coastline and can boast a couple of beaches.
Places of interest nearby include Stintino, La Pelosa Beach, Porto Torres and the island of Asinara while the recommended accommodation is the El Faro Hotel & Spa close to Alghero. |
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Argentiera • Sardinia • Ghost Town
Argentiera is a small, former mining village located on the northern coast of Sardinia, in the province of Sassari. Set against the backdrop of rugged hills and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, the village has a unique, ghostly charm due to its past as a thriving silver and lead mining hub. Today, Argentiera is largely abandoned, with many of its old industrial buildings and houses still standing, providing a fascinating glimpse into its history.
The village is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including golden beaches and secluded coves, making it a peaceful spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. Despite its deserted nature, Argentiera has become a popular destination for photography enthusiasts and those interested in industrial archaeology. The area’s mineral-rich soil and abandoned mines add to its intriguing atmosphere.
Nearby, the town of Alghero, a charming coastal city with Catalan influences, offers a range of historical sites, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The Capo Caccia promontory and the Neptune’s Grotto, a spectacular sea cave, are also within easy reach, providing additional opportunities for exploration. Argentiera, with its mixture of history, natural beauty, and proximity to Sardinia’s other attractions, offers a quiet and captivating destination for visitors.
The village is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including golden beaches and secluded coves, making it a peaceful spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. Despite its deserted nature, Argentiera has become a popular destination for photography enthusiasts and those interested in industrial archaeology. The area’s mineral-rich soil and abandoned mines add to its intriguing atmosphere.
Nearby, the town of Alghero, a charming coastal city with Catalan influences, offers a range of historical sites, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The Capo Caccia promontory and the Neptune’s Grotto, a spectacular sea cave, are also within easy reach, providing additional opportunities for exploration. Argentiera, with its mixture of history, natural beauty, and proximity to Sardinia’s other attractions, offers a quiet and captivating destination for visitors.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Mining Ruins: The town is dotted with well-preserved mining ruins, including the abandoned mines, mine entrances, and the machinery used during the heyday of mining operations. Visitors can explore these sites, providing an insight into the town's mining heritage.
- Beaches: Argentiera is blessed with stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sands. The beaches of Spiaggia della Balena and Spiaggia di Argentiera are particularly popular for relaxation and swimming.
- The Coastal Tower: The town features a coastal watchtower, Torre di Argentiera, which was built during the Spanish rule to protect the coast from pirate raids. The tower offers panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
- Historic Buildings: Walking through the town, visitors can see the charming old buildings, some of which are still inhabited, giving a sense of the town's mining past.
- Mine Museum: The local mine museum provides information about the history of mining in Argentiera and the techniques used in extracting minerals.
- Hiking and Nature: The area surrounding Argentiera offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Sardinia's rugged coastline and Mediterranean flora.
- Local Cuisine: While in Argentiera, visitors can savor traditional Sardinian dishes, such as malloreddus (Sardinian pasta), bottarga (cured fish roe), and local seafood specialties.
Argentiera - frazione di Sassari
Comune: Sassari
Province: Sassari Region: Sardinia Elevation: 30 metres Highlights: abandoned mines, Spiaggia Piccola, Cala Argentiera Close by: Stintino, La Pelosa Beach, Porto Torres, Asinara Recommended accommodation: El Faro Hotel & Spa (31 km) |