The present invention refers to controlled release granular compositions of mesalazine and their use in the treatment of inflammatory pathologies of the intestinal tract. The aforesaid granular compositions comprise: a) a central core comprising an inert substrate; b) an intermediate layer comprising mesalazine and one or more physiologically acceptable excipients; c) a gastro-resistant coating. The present invention then refers to a process for obtaining the aforesaid granular compositions.