Nuragic civilization

Il Nuraghe Su Nuraxi incantato " Tra Fiaba e Realtà " 01

Nuraghe Santu Antine 02

Monted'accoddisardegna

Putifigari, necropoli di Monte Siseri (25)

Dee madri 02

Nuragic civilization

The Nuragic civilization was a civilization or culture that existed in Sardinia, an island in the Mediterranean Sea, from the Bronze Age (around 1800 BC) to the 2nd century AD. It is named after the nuraghes, which are the main type of ancient megalithic edifice found in Sardinia. More than 7,000 nuraghes have been found, though it is believed that originally there were more than 10,000.

Origins and Development

The origins of the Nuragic civilization are still the subject of research and debate. It is thought to have developed from the pre-existing local cultures of the Neolithic period, such as the Ozieri culture. The Nuragic people were skilled metal workers, particularly in bronze, which played a significant role in their economy and culture. Their society was organized in complex tribal structures, and they inhabited villages often located in strategic positions.

Society and Culture

The Nuragic society was hierarchical and is believed to have been led by a warrior elite. Their economy was based on agriculture, animal husbandry, hunting, and metalworking. The Nuragic people were also seafarers engaged in trade with other Mediterranean cultures, including the Mycenaeans, the Etruscans, and the Phoenicians.

Religion played a significant role in Nuragic society, with numerous sacred wells, megaron temples, and giant's graves providing evidence of a complex spiritual life. The exact nature of their religious beliefs and practices, however, remains largely unknown.

Nuraghes

The nuraghes are the most emblematic monuments of the Nuragic civilization. These tower-fortresses, built using large blocks of stone, served as defensive structures, dwellings, and status symbols for the Nuragic people. The most famous nuraghe is Su Nuraxi in Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Decline

The decline of the Nuragic civilization began around the 8th century BC, with the arrival of the Phoenicians, who established colonies and trading posts on the island. This was followed by Carthaginian and then Roman domination, which gradually assimilated the Nuragic culture. By the 2nd century AD, the Nuragic civilization had effectively disappeared, leaving behind a rich archaeological legacy.

Legacy

Today, the Nuragic civilization is considered one of the most important and mysterious ancient civilizations of the Western Mediterranean. Its monuments, particularly the nuraghes, are symbols of Sardinia and have become key to understanding the prehistory of the island.