Valledoria, nestled on the northern coast of Sardinia, may be best known today for its beaches and natural beauty, but its roots tell a fascinating story of ancient cultures and shifting powers. The area was originally inhabited by the Nuragic civilization, one of the oldest cultures in Europe, whose mysterious stone towers (nuraghi) still dot the Sardinian landscape.

During the Middle Ages, Valledoria was part of the Giudicato of Torres, a Sardinian kingdom that ruled over the region before falling under Pisan and then Aragonese control. In the 14th century, the town was nearly abandoned after being devastated by plague and wars. It wasn’t until the 19th century that it was repopulated and began to flourish again under the name Codaruina, later becoming Valledoria in the 20th century.

Today, visitors can explore remnants of this layered past while enjoying the peaceful charm of a modern coastal town. From ancient traditions to medieval influences, Valledoria offers a quiet but rich journey through Sardinia’s history.