Porto Cervo is a famous Sardinian resort located in Costa Smeralda, in the Gallura region. Its name derives from the shape of the natural inlet which resembles the head of a deer. With Tropea, in Calabria, is one of the most popular dream tourist destinations in Italy.
History of Porto Cervo
It was 1962 when the prince of Arab origin Karim Aga Khan IVconquered by the beauty of the northeastern coast of Sardinia, he bought the lands of the municipalities of Olbia and Arzachena. Since then, thanks to his entrepreneurial skills, he developed the tourist structure of the Costa Smeralda, giving life to exclusive paradise of Porto Cervo. His team included the French set designer Jacques Couelle and the Italian architects Luigi Vietti and Michele Busiri Vici, who were involved in the construction of luxurious hotels and social gatherings.
The Prince thought of everything to make the Costa Smeralda accessible to the greatest number of people. In 1963 he founded the airline Alisarda (which later became Meridiana) and in 1969 he had it built the international airport of Olbia-Costa Smeralda. Furthermore, in the Eighties he started the construction of the new port of Porto Cervo, which can accommodate up to 700 boats. For his entrepreneurial commitment, Prince Aga Kan IV was the first among Muslims in Italy to receive the title of Knight of the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. In 1988 he was appointed knight of labor.
Destination of famous people
As a fraction of the municipality of Arzachena, Porto Cervo normally has around one hundred residents. In the warmer months it comes alive with social events, festivals and paparazzi. In fact, among the crowds of tourists who flock to enjoy the sea and the scenery of this beautiful location, there are also famous people: footballers, movie and music stars. Its beaches are colored with people and life, while they are positioned offshore yacht and yachts. Due to the presence of elite visitors, there is no shortage of the most exclusive accommodations luxury shopping.
The Stella Maris church
Worthy of note is the Stella Maris church, which stands out for its modern architecture. It was designed by the architect Michele Busiri Vici in the XNUMXs in perfect Mediterranean style. The rounded and sinuous lines make this place of worship devoid of corners, circular, an explicit reference to the image of God. natural materials like the 6 monoliths of the facade and the juniper wood, make the building in harmony with the landscape. The land was a tribute from Aga Khan IV to the parish of Don Raimondo Fresi, who had raised the need to respond to the spiritual needs of the prince's guests. The church is located on a hill and from the square in front it is possible to admire the new port of Porto Cervo and the entrance to the gulf.
The beauty is in the eyes ... of the Italians!
Porto Cervo is just one of the gems of Italy. Our country is a map to be discovered far and wide, from the capital city of fashion or business, to the small villages perched on the hills. The people, the architecture and the local gastronomic excellences are a heritage that must be protected and promoted. As Italians we very often do not dwell on the beauties that surround us, small corners of the landscape and historical testimonies that have been there, under our eyes since we were born. So this is a common appeal to all Italians in Italy and around the world: look around you this summer! Discover with different eyes what surrounds you and you will see that returning from holidays will not leave a bad taste in your mouth!
