Bosa

Origins of the town

Moving away from Alghero, and following the coast to the south along the beautiful panoramic coastal road, we reach the picturesque town of Bosa (8,600 inhabitants). Located on the west coast of the Planaria region, on the banks of the Temo river– the only navigable river in Sardinia.

Situated at the foot of the Serravalle hill, Bosa has roots dating back to ancient times. Evidence of Phoenician presence (a lost epigraph) dates back to the existence of a first settlement around the IX century BC. Among the various well-known sources, we have Ptolemy to thank, who explicitly refers to the toponym. 

Despite the almost constant Saracen invasions and consequent collapse of the population, the town was not entirely abandoned. New input was provided, in urbanistic terms, by the Malaspina family who built their castle in 1112. They built the castle of the same name, taking advantage of the dominant and strategic position offered by the Serravalle hill.  The Malaspina stronghold and the urban renovation aimed at fortifying the settlement did not, however, succeed in holding off the expansionist ambitions of the crown of Aragon. In 1323 the town fell under the new hegemonic power.

The castle undoubtedly represents a point in the route which leads to the district Sa Costa, which is very characteristic of the medieval village. From Sa Costa, it is easy to access the bulwark.  Within the bulwark, there is the small church of Regnos Altos and its valuable frescos.

Near the Temo river it is possible to try a sampling of local artisanal products, such as the legendary Bosa Malvasia wine, which absolutely must be tasted.  It is not difficult to find characteristic bars serving very high-quality products that are famous all over the world.

Another distinctive trait of Bosa are the women who wisely weave the filet, an elegant and intricate embroidery done on a lattice base (su randadu).

One can wander between streets, alleys, and paths, bordering the banks of the Temo, in a truly unique, fable-like, and mysterious atmosphere.  At the river port, near the medieval area stand the ancient tanneries. As we cross the bridge, we come to the XV century cathedral "Cattedrale dell' Immacolata," which was remodeled in the nineteenth century, influenced by the Piedmont Baroque style.

Along the main street 'Corso Vittorio Emanuele II,' we discover many beautiful buildings, including the eighteenth century Don Carlos.

Traditions and Religious festivals

The festival of Nostra Signora di Regnos Altos on the 8th of September is not to be missed. During this festival, the statue of the Madonna (mother Mary) is taken around in a procession towards the sanctuary, followed by the faithful with their unusual altarittos (small votive altars).

Another interesting event is the Bosano carnival, where entertainment and tradition give life to an enjoyable and enthralling experience. Finally, the festival of Santa Maria del Mare, which falls on the first Sunday in August, is an occasion of rare charm, with a procession of the Madonna, who is transported on a boat, down the river.

Environmental heritage

The environmental heritage is magnificent and uncontaminated: after the incredible views seen travelling from Alghero to Bosa, we reach the area of Bosa Marina, a seaside resort marked by beautiful beaches hidden amongst rocks.

The preserved, and wild natural environment has proved itself to be the ideal location for the Griffin– at risk of extinction – but which has found its ideal habitat to thrive and reproduce, within the bio-marine park of Capo Marargiu.

Researchers and volunteers carry out their research and protection projects within the reserve. As we approach the town, the peculiarity of the Isola Rossa is striking.  It is joined to the coast by a stone viaduct where the magnificent presence of the Spanish tower dominates. All the while, Malaspina Castle's romantic presence reigns over this varied and exceptional stretch of coast