Welcome to Alghero

The Department of Architecture, Design and Urban Planning of the University of Sassari is located in the historic centre of the coastal town of Alghero, 36 km from the city of Sassari where the university's main campus is located. The choice of the location was made in particular for its proximity to Alghero airport in order to satisfy the international vocation of the Department since its foundation in 2002.

The welcoming and informal university life in Alghero reflects the community as a whole; Alghero is a lively and culturally rich place. The capital of the Riviera del Corallo, it is one of the most sought-after destinations on the north-western coast of Sardinia thanks to its sandy beaches, secluded coves, enchanting cliffs and various sites of archaeological and cultural interest. Alghero has a population of about 42,000 inhabitants. It is a very pretty city with a medieval historical centre with its perimeter walls still intact and is surrounded by unspoilt nature, particularly in the territory of the Porto Conte Natural Park. The city was once under Catalan control in the 14th century and still retains many Catalan characteristics. It is twinned with the city of Barcelona and among the historical alleys one can still hear the language of Catalan origin spoken.

Alghero is a historical city with a good urban quality, well connected with the Italian mainland and other international destinations especially in the warmer season. The airport is located about 10 kilometres north-west of the city centre and is directly connected with Rome, Milan, Pisa and Bologna throughout the year and with several major European cities, such as London, Dublin, Barcelona, Madrid, Brussels, Frankfurt, Stockholm and many others during the seasonal period from March to October.

Although Alghero does not offer accommodation in student residences, finding accommodation is quite easy. A wide range of reasonably priced shared flats is available for rent during the ten months of the course. The distance from the city of Sassari and the low frequency of transport between the two cities make it difficult for students to take accommodation in student residences in Sassari and commute to Alghero. This difficulty is also due to the compulsory attendance required for most of the department's courses.

Every year, the ERSU right to study organisation establishes an agreement with a restaurant in Alghero to offer the canteen service to the Department's students, and many restaurants and bars offer special prices for students.

Department staff are always available for assistance with incoming mobility-related paperwork and a first reception service is provided by the Erasmus Student Network Association (ESN Sassari).