Italea Sardegna

Sardinia, a land kissed by the sun and cradled by the sea, boasts beaches that have always enchanted its inhabitants and travelers.
However, in addition to their current vocation for tourism, the Sardinian coast holds a fascinating and tradition-rich past, where beaches played a very different role.

Beaches as military garrisons and refuge for civilians

During the world wars, Sardinian beaches underwent a profound transformation. Sun-drenched coastlines and pristine landscapes became the scene of dramatic events, turning into military garrisons and refuge for civilians. In Cagliari, the Poetto waterfront filled with soldiers and military vehicles, altering the serene atmosphere that characterized the city. The beaches of Alghero and Stintino became strategic bases for the Allies, while those of Sulcis were the scene of landings and battles. Local people experienced this difficult period with apprehension and fear. Beaches, once places to work, play and socialize, became off-limits areas or refuge to escape bombing. In Oristano, fishermen hid their boats among the rocks to escape requisitions, while in Bosa families took refuge in caves and isolated coves.

Beaches as escape routes and contraband

In the postwar period, Sardinian beaches took on a new role. The scarcity of goods and hunger drove many people to resort to smuggling. Isolated and hard-to-access coastlines became escape routes for illegal goods such as cigarettes, coffee and foodstuffs. In Teulada and Chia, smugglers landed their goods at night, using fast and silent boats. Carabinieri, aware of these activities, patrolled the beaches and gave rise to daring chases.

Beaches as a source of livelihood

Far from mass tourism, the Sardinian beaches of the last century were a place of work and life for local people. Fishing was the main activity: men and women went to the shore every day to pull nets and gather the fruits of the sea. Among the most vivid memories of our ancestors is that of “Nonna Maria,” a skilled fisherman from Alghero, who used to tell how, as a child, she would wake up before dawn to accompany her grandfather on his rowboat. Together, they would hoist nets laden with fresh fish, which they would then sell at the village market. Beaches were also the place where laundry was washed, nets were spread out to dry, and boats were built. In Sant’Antioco, the elderly still remember the smell of resinous wood and the clamor of the men who, with skilled hands, gave life to sturdy boats destined for fishing or transporting goods.

Beaches as a space for play and socialization

For children, the beaches were a natural playground. People ran in the sand, swam in the crystal clear waters, built sand castles and collected shells. In Bosa, the more daring tried their hand at reckless dives from the rocks, while the younger ones enjoyed looking for crabs and hermit crabs among the rocks. In the evening, the beaches were transformed into gathering places for families and friends. Fires were lit, guitars were played and traditional songs were sung. In Cagliari, the Poetto waterfront came alive with music and dancing as the scents of the sea mingled with those of food prepared on the grill. During the warmer season, the beaches were the beating heart of social life, a place to share stories, joys and sorrows.

Beaches as custodians of rituals and traditions

Sardinian beaches were also custodians of rituals and traditions related to the sea and religion. In Oristano, on the night of St. John, bonfires were lit on the beach and prayers were said for the protection of fishermen and for a good harvest. In Castelsardo, the procession of Our Lady of the Sea ended with the blessing of the boats, a moment of great devotion and emotion for the whole community.

Beaches as a symbol of hope and reconstruction

Despite the hardships and suffering, the Sardinian beaches also represented a symbol of hope and a better future. The beauty of the sea and unspoiled nature offered a spiritual refuge and a promise of return to normalcy. In San Teodoro, young people would gather on Brandinchi beach to sing and dance, trying to forget the wounds of war. In Pula, fishermen were rebuilding their damaged boats, ready to resume their work and support their families.

A heritage to be preserved and passed on

Today, Sardinian beaches are popular destinations for tourists from all over the world. But it is important to remember and value their past of authentic stories, traditions and values. Through root tourism, we can rediscover the deep soul of Sardinia and help preserve a precious heritage to be handed down to future generations.

Tips for authentic root tourism

Choose a seaside village with a rich past: Seafaring villages still retain the atmosphere of the past and offer a more authentic experience.
Talk to local elders: They are keepers of valuable stories and traditions that you won’t find in any book.
Attend a village festival or festival:These events allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy local flavors.
Visit a museum or archaeological site: You will learn about the history and culture of Sardinia through archaeological artifacts and evidence from the past.
Walk or bike the trails: Explore the wild coastline and discover unspoiled corners of rare beauty.

By traveling with awareness and respect, you can have an unforgettable experience in Sardinia, rediscovering your roots and appreciating its true essence.