An Art Nouveau palazzo in central Cagliari, built by Ligurian entrepreneur Agostino Casaccia and now home to the Library of the Archival Superintendency for Sardinia.
At a glance
Barrago Palace is a refined example of early twentieth-century Art Nouveau design, occupying a prominent position in Cagliari’s urban center. The building takes its name from Francesco Barrago, who acquired it in 1941, though it was originally commissioned and built by Casaccia between 1913 and 1915. Now serving as a public library and archival resource, the palazzo remains an accessible cultural institution.
History
Ligurian entrepreneur Agostino Casaccia commissioned the palazzo’s construction between 1913 and 1915, establishing himself on the island where he remained until 1923 in what was likely a wine-related enterprise. Francesco Barrago purchased the building in 1941, and his ownership led to its modern designation. In 1974, the Ministry of Education recognized its historical and artistic importance. The State acquired the property in 1989 and designated it as the seat of the Archival Superintendence for Sardinia, which relocated there in 1996 following comprehensive restoration work.
What you see
The palazzo follows a rectangular floor plan comprising a mezzanine and piano nobile. Fine terracotta decorations embellish the facades, while an elegant wrought-iron staircase dominates the interior. Delicate pear-themed paintings ornament the walls and ceilings, displaying the refined decorative sensibility characteristic of Art Nouveau design during its early Sardinian expression.
Cultural significance
Barrago Palace represents an important chapter in early twentieth-century Sardinian architectural history, marking the presence of mainland Italian enterprise and aesthetic innovation on the island. Its conversion to public archival use ensures that its spaces remain integral to contemporary cultural research and heritage preservation throughout the region.
Key facts
- Address: Via Marche, 15/17, 09127 Cagliari
- Coordinates: 39.2272571, 9.1195231
- Built: 1913–1915
- Designed for: Agostino Casaccia
- Phone: 070 401620
- Official website: http://www.beniculturali.it/mibac/opencms/MiBAC/sito-MiBAC/Luogo/MibacUnif/Luoghi-della-Cultura/visualizza_asset.html?id=150082&pagename=50
Practical information
The palazzo now functions as the Library of the Archival Superintendency for Sardinia. Opening hours and visitor access policies are available through the official website or by telephone.
Getting there
The palazzo is located at Via Marche, 15/17 in central Cagliari. Public transportation serves the city center; consult local transit maps for routes to this address. The official website provides additional directions.
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