Ardara - Santa Maria del Regno

"Santa Maria del Regno" was commissioned in the 11th century by Giorgia, sister of Gonnario Comita, judge of Torres and Arborea. The title "judge" actually meant politically "king" during medieval times on Sardinia. This was a "Palace Chapel", only some ruins of the palace, that was once annexed, can still be seen.

The church built from black volcanic stones by a workshop led by an unknown Master from Pisa was consecrated in 1107. The late gothic altar seen at the end of the nave is 12metres high.

In 1238 Enzo, the illegitimate son of Emperor Frederick II, married Adelasia in this church. She was heir of "Giudicati" of Torres and Gallura, what made him to "Enzo of Sardinia". Maybe he had some happy days here.
After the Battle of Fossalta in 1249 he was captured by the Guelphs. He remained imprisoned for 23 years, until his death in 1272.