Argentiera​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 30 December 2023
​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 is a fascinating coastal town located in the northwestern region of Sardinia, Italy. Its history is deeply tied to mining, particularly the extraction of silver (argentum in Latin), which earned the town its name. The area has a long history of mining dating back to the Roman period, and silver and other minerals were extensively extracted during the medieval and modern eras.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Argentiera experienced a significant boom in mining activity, attracting workers and their families from various parts of Italy. However, mining operations gradually declined, leading to the town's gradual depopulation.
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)

Argentiera​​​  Gallery

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