Landmark

Torre dell'Elefante

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Torre dell'Elefante is the second of Cagliari's surviving Pisan towers, built in 1307 as a twin to Torre di San Pancrazio. Its name comes from a small stone elephant carving on a corbel near the top, a symbol of the Pisan ruling family. The tower stands at the edge of the Castello district, overlooking the Marina and Stampace neighborhoods. Inside, a narrow staircase leads to the top, where visitors are rewarded with views of the port, the Bastione di Saint Remy, and the surrounding hills. The tower's walls bear scars from cannonballs and graffiti from centuries of use. Unlike its counterpart, Torre dell'Elefante feels more intimate and less crowded, making it a peaceful spot for contemplation. The elephant carving is easy to miss, look up from the street side to spot it. The tower also houses a small exhibition on medieval Cagliari.

Don't miss

  • Spot the small elephant corbel on the exterior, a unique medieval detail
  • Climb to the top for views of the port and Marina district
  • See the cannonball marks and historic graffiti on the walls
  • Visit the on-site exhibition about Pisan Cagliari
  • Combine with a walk along the nearby Bastione di Saint Remy

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Ways to visit Torre dell'Elefante

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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