Quartu Sant’Elena
Quartu Sant’Elena, located four miles east of Cagliari on the ancient Roman road, is a city and comune in the Metropolitan City of Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy. It is the third-largest city of Sardinia, with a population of 68,108 as of 2025. Its name recalls its position at the fourth Roman milestone from Cagliari.
At a glance
- Type
- City and comune
- Period
- Roman origins along the ancient road
- Style
- Sardinian coastal city
- Location
- Metropolitan City of Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy
Overview
Quartu Sant’Elena is a city and comune in the Metropolitan City of Cagliari, Sardinia, located four miles east of Cagliari on the line of the ancient Roman road. It is the third-largest city of Sardinia, with a population of 68,108 as of 2025.
History
The city’s name derives from its position at the fourth milestone along the Roman road east of Cagliari. This Roman-era reference points to the long settlement history of the area. Quartu Sant’Elena has grown into the third-largest city of Sardinia within the Metropolitan City of Cagliari.
What you see
Quartu Sant’Elena lies a short distance east of Cagliari on the southern coast of Sardinia. The city sits along the route of the ancient Roman road that linked it to the island’s capital. Its position within the Cagliari metropolitan territory places it among the principal urban centres of southern Sardinia.
Cultural significance
As the third-largest city of Sardinia, Quartu Sant’Elena is a significant centre within the Metropolitan City of Cagliari. Its Roman roots, recorded in its very name, link it to the ancient road network of the island.
Practical information
Check official website for current visiting information. Quartu Sant’Elena is located four miles east of Cagliari in southern Sardinia.
Getting there
Quartu Sant’Elena is reached from Cagliari by road, lying just east of the regional capital along the route of the old Roman road. Cagliari provides the nearest rail, road and air connections, including Cagliari Elmas Airport.