Arzachena

Arzachena is located in the northeast of the autonomous region of Sardinia and is part of the province of Gallura North-East Sardinia. With a population of approximately 13,450 inhabitants, it is the second-largest municipality in Gallura after Olbia. The town occupies a strategic position halfway between the original Costa Smeralda resort and Porto Rafael. The municipality serves as a central hub in the northeastern part of the island, connecting established structures with the tourism developments of the late 1950s. Due to its location between these famous coastal resorts, Arzachena has developed into a significant administrative and residential center of the region, blending local traditions with modern influences.

The recent history of the municipality is closely linked to the tourism development of the region. A decisive turning point occurred in the late 1950s, when both the Costa Smeralda and Porto Rafael were founded. These developments transformed Arzachena from a predominantly rural location into one of the most populated centers in Gallura. Today, the municipality ranks second in the region in terms of population, directly behind Olbia, while maintaining its administrative significance for northeastern Sardinia.

The municipality of Arzachena extends across the northeastern sector of Sardinia within the province of Gallura North-East Sardinia. Geographically, the town center is nestled between the Costa Smeralda and Porto Rafael, serving as a link between these two major tourism hubs. As the second-largest town in Gallura, it acts as an essential point of reference for travelers and residents in the northeastern part of the island.

Costa Smeralda (founded in the late 1950s)Porto RafaelSecond-largest municipality in Gallura