Cagliari is a place where historical relics layer the city, ancient customs define modern life, and its many centenarians share their wisdom with the next generation.
In the Castello district,
lunch is sacrosanct, with churches, schools, and offices closing in its honor. Locals and visitors come to Gli Uffici for the sweeping views of the ancient citadel, the port, and the sea, and to feast on porceddu—suckling pig slow-cooked with dandelion and rock salt extracted from Santa Gilla.
The city's famous pink flamingos are attracted to the lagoon with salt pans, where white crystalline pyramids graze the horizon.
Author's summary: Cagliari preserves historical relics and ancient customs.