La Maddalena, the fortified island with enchanting beaches

La Maddalena, first mentioned in the 16th century by Giovanni Francesco Fara, owes its name to the evangelical saint, patroness of the island.

Its position in the Strait of Bonifacio has always made it strategic: a stop for prehistoric obsidian and flint trade, a port for Roman ships, a medieval refuge for monks, and a site of clashes with Barbary incursions. From the 17th century it was inhabited by Corsican shepherds who created a stable community, until in 1767 the Kingdom of Sardinia occupied it militarily, making it an outpost during conflicts with France. In 1793 Napoleon attempted an invasion that was repelled, while Admiral Nelson found support there and left precious sacred furnishings as a gift.

Garibaldi, warmly welcomed, made nearby Caprera his home from 1856. In the 19th century La Maddalena became a Maritime Stronghold, protected by fortifications and camouflaged batteries. The granite industry flourished, exporting worldwide.

In 1943 Mussolini was imprisoned at Villa Webber, shortly before Allied bombings and the local resistance to German occupation—an episode that deeply marked the island’s memory.

What to see in La Maddalena

In the historic center stand out the Town Hall, a reminder of the 1943 bombings, the Council Chamber with the 1793 banner, and the Parish Church commissioned by Desgeneys.

Not to be missed are Piazza Comando with its seafront, Via Garibaldi with its Umbertine palaces, and the characteristic carrugghi. On the military side, noteworthy are the forts of Sant’Andrea, Carlo Felice, and San Vittorio, the Colmi Battery, and the Cala Francese quarry linked to the granite industry.

Also evocative are the Madonnetta, the Garibaldi Column, and Villa Webber, Mussolini’s prison in 1943. The beaches of Bassa Trinita, Monti da Rena, and Spalmatore complete the natural setting. On the island of Santo Stefano are granite quarries, the monument on Scoglio Roma, the square tower, and Fort San Giorgio.

Events that enliven La Maddalena

La Maddalena boasts a rich calendar of events that animate the village all year round, with an intense summer season of concerts, exhibitions, and theater festivals.

On May 1, the Festa della Madonnetta is deeply felt by the inhabitants, celebrated first with religious rites and then with a seaside festival. June 2 is dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi, with debates, exhibitions, and historical reenactments, while July 22 celebrates Santa Maria Maddalena, patroness of the island, with processions, festivals, and the spectacular sea parade.

The last week of July brings the festival La Valigia dell’Attore, dedicated to Gian Maria Volonté, with screenings and debates. From June to September, the village hosts over a hundred days of cultural events, culminating in September with the prestigious Premio Solinas, an international reference for cinema.

Unmissable attractions nearby

Beyond La Maddalena, the archipelago of the same name includes other islands worth visiting year-round. Among them, the aforementioned island of Caprera, home to splendid coves such as Cala Garibaldi, Cala Serena, Cala Napoletana, and the evocative Relitto, as well as imposing batteries like Candeo, Poggio Rasu, and Punta Rossa. From Tejalone one can admire the entire archipelago, while at Stagnali and Porto Palma remain testimonies of military life.

Do not miss the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park, to admire the Mediterranean scrub and observe the most unique species living in the area.

For sea lovers, this is certainly the right destination: the archipelago boasts dozens of beaches with crystal-clear waters that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a postcard.

In short, whether summer or winter, this village will always keep you engaged. La Maddalena is waiting for you!

Cover photo credits: Gabriele Maltinti