Province of Olbia-Tempio (Sardinia, Italy)

Geography and principal settlements

Geographically the province covered coastal and inland zones. Major towns included Olbia, the largest commercial and transport hub, and Tempio Pausania, an inland center with strong local traditions. Other notable communes were Arzachena, Santa Teresa Gallura, Golfo Aranci and the island group around La Maddalena.

• Olbia – port and airport gateway
• Tempio Pausania – historic and administrative center
• Arzachena – Costa Smeralda villages and beaches
• La Maddalena – archipelago and marine areas
• Santa Teresa Gallura – northern coastal town

History and administration

The province was created as part of territorial reorganization in the early 21st century to give Gallura greater local administration and to manage the growing tourism economy. During the 2010s regional reforms its legal status and boundaries were revised in a broader effort to reorganize provincial government across Sardinia, producing changes to administrative responsibilities and intermunicipal cooperation.

Local governance historically balanced the needs of year-round residents—fishing, agriculture and small industry—with the seasonal pressures of high-end tourism, construction and services concentrated along the coast.

Economy, culture and environment

The economy relied heavily on tourism, especially luxury tourism along the Costa Smeralda, supported by hospitality, yachting and related services. Agriculture such as olive oil, viticulture and cork production and traditional crafts remained important inland. Gallurese language and customs, granite town centers and prehistoric nuraghi contribute to a strong regional identity, while coastal and marine protected areas—most notably around the La Maddalena islands—are environmental assets.

Transport links include ferry connections and an international airport at Olbia, which connect the area to mainland Italy and nearby islands, underpinning both commerce and visitor flows. The province's mixture of rugged interior and famous beaches made it a notable and diverse part of Sardinia's landscape and economy.