A memory of little Barcelona
Alghero is the capital of coral and is world-famous for its fine workmanship. In the heart of the historic centre of the Sardinian town (ciudad vecchia) you will find many craft workshops, where you can buy ceramics, baskets, embroidered textiles and – of course – precious jewellery made of coral. One of the most important shops in this characteristic village is Agostino Marogna‘s jewellery shop. Located in Piazza Civica, in beautiful Palazzo d’Albis at number 34, it offers a wide range of jewellery that represents not only Sardinian customs but also more modern fantasies with geometric traits. The ‘red gold’ of the Alghero sea shines in all his original creations: from simple bracelets to more elaborate necklaces, wearing a unique piece by maestro Marogna means taking a bit of the island’s magic with you. On via Lido, we find Marina Ferraro‘s refined and elegant coral atelier. Here, for more than 30 years, true works of art have been created to wear: from lovely earrings and heart-shaped rings to gem and pearl pendants. In the very central via Roma is La Corallina, a shop carved entirely out of stone with truly fascinating architecture. Also not to be missed are Coralli De Filippis in via Carlo Alberto and L’Altra Isola in via Maiorca!
Fashionistas should pay a visit to the men’s and women’s boutique of Sardinian designer Antonio Marras, in Piazza Civica, famous for having run Kenzo for about eight years. While at Naitana, you can buy exclusively handmade shoes. Made of leather or calfskin, sandals from this workshop are tailor-made, customised to your taste at a very reasonable price, given the quality of the product! The nubuck and leather belts are also very pretty, as well as those in suede and various colours. They range in length from 100 to 130 cm., while those in leather can be as long as 160 cm. On via Carlo Alberto, Gilbert, which has been offering sportswear for both women and men since 1996, offers international brands such as Armani, Camomilla, Marella, Fred Mello, Herschel and SUN68.
Wednesday is market day: tourists and locals alike flock to Viale Europa where many stalls are set up early in the morning. You can find everything from clothing to traditional Sardinian gastronomic products such as cold meats, cheese, fruit and vegetables. In the district of Sant’Agostino, a zero-km market is held on Thursday mornings. Here local producers showcase their local wealth. The fruit and vegetable market in via Sassari and the fish market in via Cagliari are also very popular.