The ancient stone ruins of this Nuragic site near Alghero, provide a tantalizing window into the lives and culture of an ancient Sardinian civilisation.
Journey back almost 4,000 years in time when you visit the ancient village of Nuraghe di Palmavera. This archeological complex with its towers and huts was built by the Nuraghe, an early civilization of Sardinia.
The Nuragic civilization thrived for two millennia, up until the second century. This settlement was built in several stages, starting around the fourteenth century BC.
Go on a self-guided or a guided tour of the complex. Visit the heart of the site, the remains of the palace. The structure was among the first to be built here and consists of two towers. Conical rock towers known as nuraghi are characteristic features of Nuragic settlements and there are thousands dotted across the island. Enter the palace through the small narrow doorway, which archeologists believe was designed to be diminutive as a defensive measure. Then, walk along the corridor to the main tower.
After you’ve left the palace, stroll through the rest of the complex, which contains approximately 50 circular huts that are thought to have been dwellings. Look carefully and you will see that one appears different to the rest. The hut opposite the palace’s main entrance is slightly larger than the others and could have been a meeting place for village elders.
Inside the building, see the stone bench that runs along the wall. Perhaps this is where the elders sat during their gatherings.
You can visit Nuraghe di Palmavera any time of year, although opening and closing times vary according to the season. There is a small entry fee, which doesn’t include charges for audio guides or tour guides. Consider purchasing an inclusive ticket for another archeological attraction, Anghelu Ruju. This is a prehistoric burial site containing a number of tombs cut into rocks, decorated with symbols of bulls.
The Nuraghe di Palmavera is an important part of Sardinia’s ancient history and lies approximately 7.5 miles (12 kilometres) from Alghero.
