The Nuragic Civilization developed during the middle of the Bronze Age (15th-18th centuries BC.) The word nuraghe is perhaps related to the Sardinian word ‘nurra‘ meaning heap of stones. There have been no written testimonies of this civilization and most findings have been scientific theories. Only a handful of the 7000 remaining nuraghe have been excavated, leaving an entire nation still in wonder.

It’s been estimated that there once stood 30,000 nuraghe. On an island of 24,090 km 2 with numbers in the thousands of nuraghe, we can estimate that this civilization was one of the most advanced (in its time) and strongest in the European area.

The Nuragic Society consisted of builders, shepherds, farmers, and fishermen. The use of nuraghe remains a mystery, but some believe these beehive structures were once used as religious temples, rulers’ residences, military strongholds, town meeting halls and housing for shepherds and their families.

Nuraghe are typically located in a panoramic area and most are found in the northwest and south-central part of Sardinia. There are two types of nuraghe: tholos (domed shaped tomb or building) & corridor nuraghe. Nuraghe are built entirely of granite, with no foundations to support these masterpieces but the weight of their granite stone.

Nuraghe Izzana in Aggius is the largest nuraghe in the Gallura and is located in the beautiful area of Valle della Luna, Valley of the Moon. Nuraghe Izzana has both characteristics of the two main styles of nuraghe found in Sardinia. It supports the tholos (domed building or tomb) and the corridor nuraghe. Built entirely of granite Nuraghe Izzana remains in decent condition despite a few crumbled walls.

The nuraghe are the symbol of Sardinia. Have you witnessed first hand our grand fortress of strength? Do these dwellings leave you breathless with knowledge of wanting more?