Porto Rotondo

Porto Rotondo is a planned coastal town on the Gallura coast of north-eastern Sardinia, set between the Gulfs of Cugnana and Marinella. Its marina, lanes and piazzas reflect a deliberate design inspired in part by Venice.

Why it matters

The settlement's modern history began in 1964, when Venetian brothers Luigi and Nicolò Donà dalle Rose led its development. Porto Rotondo grew around its harbour and a town plan that references Venice, including the Piazzetta San Marco. It remains a distinctive example of a purpose-built Sardinian coastal community.

What to notice

The marina forms the town's central feature, with lanes and squares rising behind it. Public artworks include the open-air Teatro Mario Ceroli and La Catena Alimentare by Emanuel Chapalain along Via Belli. The church of San Lorenzo and the clubhouse designed by Malgaretto add to the town's varied architecture. A surviving Punic-era tower recalls earlier settlement along this coast.

Context and history

The Donà dalle Rose brothers began creating Porto Rotondo in 1964 on land between the two gulfs. The Yacht Club Porto Rotondo was founded in 1985 and became an important part of the locality's maritime identity. Porto Rotondo is a frazione of Olbia and lies near, but is not formally part of, the Costa Smeralda consortium.