Luigi Serra Coastal Battery
A reinforced concrete artillery fortification built by the Royal Army in the 1930s, this strategic coastal defense installation overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea from Punta Filasca.
At a glance
The Luigi Serra Battery stands 51 meters above sea level on the Golfo Aranci coast. Built immediately after World War I, it functioned as a key defensive position throughout both World Wars. The complex comprises a command post, four cannon positions, ammunition storage, barracks, and associated infrastructure—a comprehensive example of interwar Italian coastal defense architecture.
History
Constructed in the 1930s by the Royal Army, the battery was part of the IV Coastal Brigade network. During World War II, it was garrisoned by the 338th Coastal Battalion of the Royal Army under the command of Colonel Perni Fortunato. In 1943, Lieutenant Gino Biagini assumed command. The battery never fired a shot during its operational lifetime. A support pole for a nautophone—a nautical warning system emitting fog signals—was installed nearby by the Italian Navy in the 1950s.
What you see
The installation features a central command post with five compartments, fortified by two or more heavy machine gun posts. A rotating iron turret housing a rangefinder stood at its center, connected by telephone to four circular reinforced concrete cannon stations arranged radially at different levels. Each position mounted a 120/45 cannon on an Armstrong 1918 platform carriage, secured by 32 large bolts. Position number one, the most distinctive, was entirely excavated from the rock. A powder magazine and the largest bunker—originally containing the command post and barracks—remain partially preserved, though the latter is now closed as an electrical compartment. A characteristic low-trench walkway connected firing positions, allowing personnel to move sheltered from direct fire.
Cultural significance
The Luigi Serra Battery exemplifies Fascist-era military engineering and coastal defense strategy during the Mediterranean conflict. Its physical preservation documents both construction methods and the everyday reality of garrison life in wartime Italy. The site’s integrity—despite modern adaptations—offers insights into interwar fortification design and the technological capabilities of 1930s Italian naval artillery.
Key facts
- Address: via Cala Moresca, 07020 Golfo Aranci
- Coordinates: 40.9872988, 9.65219
- Elevation: 51 meters above sea level
- Armament: Four 120/45 cannons (Armstrong 1918 model)
- Garrison: 338th Coastal Battalion, Royal Army (World War II)
- Phone: +39 0465 253674
- Website: capofigari.it
Practical information
Parts of the battery remain accessible from the surrounding coastal area. The largest bunker is closed to the public as it serves as an electrical compartment. Visiting hours and tour availability are not listed; contact the official website or phone number for current access details and guided visit arrangements.
Getting there
The battery occupies Punta Filasca in Golfo Aranci, a municipality on Sardinia’s northeastern coast. Access is via via Cala Moresca. The site is best reached by vehicle; local transportation options should be confirmed with the Golfo Aranci tourist office or the contact number provided.
Sources & resources
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