Porto Torres - San Gavino

The Roman colony of "Turris Libisonis" existed already in the first century, where now is the town of Porto Torres. This even was a bishopric seat from 489 until 1441, when the see was moved to Sassari.

Two older basilicas, dating to the 5th – 7th centuries, built over the tomb of Saint Gabinus, a local martyr, existed - and got replaced by this large building in the 11th century.

The church was built by Pisan masters and got consecrated in 1080. With a lengths of 55 metres this is the largest Romanesque church on the island.

The church has two apses, one on each shorter side of the rectangular plan. This is the western apse.

There are some pillars with capitals near the apse, that may have been excavated here, there is no information about. Here in the shadow, left to the tower in the sun, lures a mermaid.