A Jewel of the Mediterranean
Alghero, known as the “Coral City,” owes part of its fame to a precious and fascinating natural resource: the Mediterranean red coral, Corallium rubrum. This material, with its intense color and timeless charm, is not just decorative—it has represented the very soul of the city and its deep connection to the sea for centuries.
The coasts of Alghero are among the richest in coral in the entire Mediterranean, and the tradition of working it has roots in a distant past. Even today, strolling through the streets of the historic center, one cannot help but be amazed by the shop windows of artisanal workshops showcasing jewelry made from this marine treasure.
History and Tradition of Coral in Alghero
The history of coral in Alghero dates back to the Middle Ages. As early as the 15th century, under Catalan-Aragonese rule, the city was already recognized as an important center for coral fishing. Local fishermen navigated the sea in small boats, using rudimentary tools—the famous “Saint Andrew’s crosses”—to harvest coral from the seabed.
Over time, this activity became a true culture. Coral was not just a material to work with; it symbolized luck, protection, and prosperity. It was used in jewelry, religious objects, and as an amulet against the evil eye. The local economy was profoundly transformed, and Alghero became synonymous with beauty and craftsmanship excellence.
Characteristics of Mediterranean Red Coral
Alghero’s red coral is among the most valued in the world for its exceptional quality. It grows very slowly—only a few millimeters per year—and develops mainly on rocky, shaded seabeds at depths between 30 and 200 meters.
Its color is its signature: a deep red ranging from bright vermilion to intense burgundy, depending on the depth at which it grows. Compact, hard, and durable, it is ideal for artisanal work.
Today, coral harvesting is strictly regulated to protect the marine environment: special permits are required, and biological rest periods are established to allow natural regeneration of the colonies.
Artisanal Work: Master Coral Craftsmen and Workshops
In Alghero, coral craftsmanship is an art passed down through generations. Artisanal workshops, true guardians of the tradition, continue to create objects of great beauty, combining ancient techniques with contemporary design.
The main stages of transformation are:
- Selection and Cleaning: Freshly harvested coral is cleaned and sorted according to color and quality.
- Cutting and Shaping: The artisan shapes the coral branches while respecting their natural form.
- Polishing: Using delicate tools, the coral is polished to bring out its natural shine.
- Assembly: The crafted elements are transformed into jewelry, rosaries, or decorative objects.
Each piece is unique and unrepeatable: a small work of art that holds the story of Alghero’s sea.
The Alghero Coral Museum
For those who wish to explore this tradition further, a must-visit is the Alghero Coral Museum, located in the enchanting setting of Villa Costantino.
The museum traces the natural, economic, and cultural history of coral through interactive installations, videos, and collections of antique objects. Visitors can admire traditional fishing tools, examples of artisanal creations, and even raw coral specimens.
It is an ideal destination for families and anyone wishing to add a cultural dimension to their stay.
Coral as a Symbol of Identity
It is no coincidence that coral has become the official symbol of Alghero. The city has made it its distinctive mark: it appears on the coat of arms, on souvenirs, on shop signs, and even during themed events.
Every year, Coral Week is held, an event combining exhibitions, meetings with artisans, tastings of local products, and guided tours of workshops. It is a way to merge tradition and tourism while highlighting the role of coral in the city’s economic and cultural fabric.
Coral and the Sea: An Enduring Connection
Alghero’s sea is not only the birthplace of coral but also the starting point for unique experiences. Zodiac excursions are the best way to explore this ecosystem and admire the beauty of the Coral Riviera—from the Capo Caccia promontory to the Neptune Caves, all the way to hidden coves accessible only by sea.
👉 Experience the full Alghero sea adventure!
With our zodiac tours, you can discover the most spectacular spots along the coast and understand the importance of coral to our city.
Curiosities and Legends About Coral
Coral has always inspired legends and folk beliefs. In antiquity, it was thought to have been born from Medusa’s blood, which fell into the sea after she was beheaded by Perseus.
In many Mediterranean cultures, it was considered a good luck charm: given to newborns for protection against the evil eye, and worn by wives to safeguard their marriage.
Even today, many visitors choose to buy coral jewelry not only for its beauty but also for its strong symbolic value of protection, strength, and rebirth.
Conclusion: A Treasure That Tells the Story of Alghero
Alghero coral is not just a precious material: it is a living story that connects the sea, humans, and the culture of an entire region.
Each coral branch tells millennia of sea, labor, art, and passion. Discovering it means understanding the most authentic soul of Alghero, where tradition and beauty are inseparably intertwined.
Whether you visit the Coral Museum, wander through the historic center’s workshops, or take a sea excursion, always remember: coral is more than a souvenir—it is the symbol of a living sea and a city that has made it its brightest identity.