The whole region is named after its capital Sassari. The ancient Città Regia (royal city) is rich in history and art, making it the most important place in the north of Sardinia, thanks to the economic and cultural activities that are concentrated here. The city is the birthplace of many important Italian personalities. Among its main symbols are the Fontana di Rosello and the Piazza d'Italia. One of the richest archaeological collections can be found in the Sanna Museum, while nature lovers can visit Monserrato Park, a green oasis on the outskirts of the city. Towards the harbour town of Porto Torres you will find one of the most enigmatic buildings on the island, the Monte d'Accoddi complex (2700-2400 BC) with its megalithic altar, unique in the Mediterranean and reminiscent of Mesopotamian ziggurats. Right in the town of Porto Torres is the beautiful Balai beach, which is a frequent tourist destination in the area. The coastline, which stretches for 15 kilometres along the Gulf of Asinara, is mainly occupied by the beaches of Platamona, which are known locally as the 'beaches of the people of Sassari'. To the west of Sassari lie the historic Alghero, Cape Capo Caccia and the popular beaches of Porto Ferro with its fine sand and Porto Palmas with its smooth, small, white pebbles. Further north is Argentiera, an original mining village with a mountainous coastline, which is a popular spot for snorkelling and diving and is one of the less touristy spots even in high season. In contrast, one of the island's more obscure beaches, La Pelosa, is reminiscent of Caribbean beaches. It can be found on the northwestern tip of the island near the port town of Stintino. This area is also the best way to reach the Asinara National Park, an island belonging to Sardinia and home to the endemic white donkey. It was originally a prison, which you can visit as part of an excursion, but it is mainly used for its unspoilt nature and rich marine life.