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THE ARAGONESE TOWER IN GHILARZA
discover medieval architecture in Sardinia
What: the Roman church of San Palmerio and 
the adjacent Aragonese tower
Province: Oristano
Subregion: Arborea
Municipality: Ghilarza
Two interesting examples of Sardinian Medieval architecture are to be found in the historic centre of this small town situated in the north of the province of Oristano. The Romanesque church of San Palmerio dates from the thirteenth century. The beautiful facade of this church has three blind arches, and reminds a Pisan-style church for the way the different colours match. The red, white and black colour of the local trachyte produces a pleasant rustic effect. As the different coloured stones were not laid parallel but randomly, there is a fascinating chromatic effect that changes depending on the light.
The adjacent tower, which was used as a prison, is an interesting example of Catalan Military Gothic architecture. This imposing tower dates from the fifteenth century and is divided into three floors which have been completely restored and are used as a cultural centre. Directly in front of the tower there is a bar with a terrace overlooking the historic centre of Ghilarza.
text Gian Luigi Sassu
photo Piercarlo Murru