Aree Archeologiche della Sardegna

Un quinto di tutti i siti archeologici presenti in Italia si trovano nelle aree archeologiche della Sardegna. Questi sono i dati ISTAT: su un totale di 287 aree e parchi archeologici, ben 54 si trovano sull’isola.

What does it mean?

This means that Sardinia is an ideal destination for both archaeology enthusiasts and those who are new to historical-archaeological visits. With so many sites to explore, why not give Sardinia a chance for your next historical-archaeological excursion?

6 aree archeologiche della Sardegna adatti a tutti

Sardinia's archaeological sites are more than just ancient stones: exploring Sardinia you’ll find about megalithic constructions, fairies, spirits, and mysterious healing energies.

With 45 archaeological areas and 9 archaeological parks, Sardinia is a must-visit destination for both archaeology enthusiasts and casual visitors. Check out our top 6 picks for the most fascinating archaeological sites in Sardinia.

Tombs of the Giants

The tombs of the giants in Sardinia are prehistoric burial structures made up of large, vertical stone slabs. The unique arrangement of these slabs has led to various interpretations: some see the shape of a bull's snout with horns, while others see a woman giving birth. However, the mystery of these ancient sites goes beyond their shape. Who built them and why? Legend has it that they were constructed by giant beings, who were said to have lived on the island.

What do these megalithic constructions represent? Is it true that giant bones have been discovered inside them? And why do some believe that these stone slabs possess healing powers?

Despite efforts to uncover their secrets through books and the internet, experiencing the magic of these megalithic constructions firsthand is truly something special. sentire, a pelle, la magia che emana da queste antiche tombe.

Nuragic holy wells

The sacred wells of Sardinia are unique structures from the Nuragic culture dating back to the second millennium BC. These wells, apart from being sources of water, held immense religious significance for the ancient Sardinians. They were believed to be channels of communication between humans and spirits, thus were used for ritual purification and offering drinks during religious ceremonies.

Visiting these sacred wells is an awe-inspiring experience, one that allows us to reconnect with ancient culture and rediscover the essence of sacredness. Moreover, for those who believe, it can also serve as a means of communication with the spirits themselves.

Nuraghi

Nuraghi are ancient structures dating back to the Nuragic civilization, characterized by cone-shaped, beehive-like arrangement made of stone bricks. While they were likely used as lookout towers or storage facilities, one particularly intriguing theory suggests that they were also used for observing the stars and celestial bodies. Thus it is believed that the nuraghi were carefully oriented to identify the most important constellations and stars in the night sky, and were potentially used as actual astronomical observatories.

What incredible sights and cosmic knowledge did the Nuragic people discover through their constructions? And what can we learn about the natural forces of the cosmos from these ancient sites?

Fairy houses

Prehistoric tombs carved into the rock, domus de janas derive their name from the Sardinian language and mean “houses of fairies”, likely due to the association with tiny magical creatures known as janas, a cross between fairies and witches.

According to legend, these beings appear during full moons to dance and sing, granting mortals magical gifts or inviting them into their enchanted realm, from which no one has ever returned. Fear of the janas' wrath has led many Sardinians to avoid getting too close to the domus de janas, perpetuating the mystical aura surrounding these structures.

Dolmen & Menhirs

Megalithic monuments, such as dolmens and menhirs, are characterized by the use of large stone slabs placed in the wild. Although they may appear similar to the untrained eye, there are some notable differences. Dolmens are typically arranged in an articulate manner, often placed closely together, and may form a portal-like effect. On the other hand, menhirs have a simpler arrangement but are often adorned with carvings and decorations.

Sardinia is know as the “Stonehenge of the Mediterranean” for its many dolmens and menhirs. One of the most impressive locations to experience these structures is Pranu Muttedu, near Goni in Sud Sardegna.

Pranu Muttedu is home to several archaeological and artistic treasures, including:

• Solitary and grouped menhirs and dolmens;
• Domus de janas, which are tombs excavated in the rock;
• The necropolis of Genna Accas;
• Tombs in the shape of stone rings;
• A range of everyday objects, such as hatchets, necklaces, and daggers, found near the tombs.

Archaeological sites in Sardinia