If you are searching for an abandoned monastery in Sardinia, one useful place to research is the former Convent of San Bonaventura in Nulvi, in the province of Sassari. The building stands on one of the highest points of the historic centre and has a long story of religious, educational and later military use. Parts of the complex remain in poor condition, so it is important to check access before planning a visit.

Is Santa Maria di Bonaria an abandoned monastery?

Not quite. The famous Basilica and Sanctuary of Our Lady of Bonaria in Cagliari is an active place of worship, not an abandoned monastery. There is also a different sanctuary called Nostra Signora di Bonaria in Osilo, north-west Sardinia. It experienced a period of abandonment, but it is a hilltop church and sanctuary rather than a monastery; it is still associated with a yearly religious procession.

Where is the former Convent of San Bonaventura?

The former convent is in the historic centre of Nulvi, a village in the Anglona area of northern Sardinia. It was built from 1646 and occupies an elevated position in the town. Its central courtyard and stone construction reflect the layout of a traditional religious complex.

According to the Italian Ministry of Culture’s abandoned heritage database, the convent was used until 1866 as a school of theology and philosophy, then repurposed as barracks. After its final use ended, the complex remained abandoned for decades. Some structural work was carried out in 2003, but parts of the building were still described as ruinous in the official record.

Can you go inside?

Do not assume that an abandoned building is open to the public. Some sections may be unstable, closed or subject to restrictions, and an open doorway is not permission to enter. Before travelling, contact the official Ministry of Culture record for the Convent of San Bonaventura and ask the Comune di Nulvi about current access, guided visits and any safety rules.

What to look for in the architecture

From authorised public viewpoints, notice the convent’s overall arrangement around a central courtyard, its stone walls and the different types of vaulting described in the heritage record. Historic complexes often show changes from successive uses: repairs, replacement floors and later additions can reveal how a building adapted long after its religious life ended.

Do not climb walls, cross barriers, enter unstable rooms or remove stones and other materials. If access is not confirmed, enjoy the village and its historic centre without attempting to enter the complex.

Another place with a similar name: Nostra Signora di Bonaria in Osilo

If you meant “Bonaria” because you remember an abandoned hilltop religious building, you may be thinking of the sanctuary in Osilo. It stands on Mount Tuffudesu, more than 700 metres above sea level, and is known for its wide views over the Gulf of Asinara and, on clear days, towards Corsica. The official SardegnaTurismo guide says it was once abandoned and later rediscovered; today it remains part of a local religious tradition, including a procession on 15 August.

It is a scenic destination, but it is not an abandoned monastery. Check the official SardegnaTurismo page for Nostra Signora di Bonaria in Osilo for background and visiting context.

How to explore abandoned religious heritage responsibly

  • Verify the site first: distinguish a monastery, convent, church and sanctuary; they are not interchangeable.
  • Check current access: contact the municipality or heritage authority before visiting.
  • Stay outside closed areas: never enter private or unsafe buildings without explicit permission.
  • Respect the structure: avoid climbing, touching fragile masonry or moving objects.
  • Use official information: opening arrangements and restoration work can change.

A piece of history, not an urbex invitation

Sardinia’s former convents tell stories of religious communities, education and the changing use of public buildings. San Bonaventura in Nulvi is a documented example of a convent that later became a school and barracks before falling into disuse. If you want to see it, plan around confirmed public access rather than entering an abandoned structure on your own. And if “Santa Maria di Bonaria” was the name you had in mind, check whether you meant the active sanctuary in Cagliari or the hilltop sanctuary in Osilo.