Incredible Historic Landmarks to See on Holidays to Sardinia

Holidays to Sardinia offer the perfect combination for those seeking both beauty and culture. Indulge in the sunshine and relaxation then feed your mind by visiting some amazing landmarks. There is truly something for everyone. Here are four landmarks that have proven popular with visitors on holidays to Sardinia.

Su Nuraxi di Barumini

If you're looking for an attraction with huge historical significance, the Su Nuraxi di Barumini should be your first stop. Built by the Nuragic people during the Bronze Age, the ruins of these nuraghe towers can be found all over the island. The Su Nuraxi di Barumini is the one of the best examples of these, as it (and the village surrounding it) has been excavated.

The Su Nuraxi de Barumini is an extremely interesting historical landmark to visit and much mystery as to why these towers were originally created still abounds. A visit to this interesting landmark can bring an intellectual and eye-opening aspect to any holidays to Sardinia.

Grotto Di Nettuno

The Grotto Di Nettuno, or Neptune’s Grotto, is one of most famous caves visitors can explore on holidays to Sardinia. Dated back to prehistoric times, this cave has since been illuminated with different coloured lighting to enhance the magical atmosphere it possesses.

The Grotto di Nettuno was originally discovered in the 18th century by local fisherman, and contains some of the most impressive stalactites and stalagmites in Italy. Visitors are lead through the cave on foot and the sheer size of it means the tours can take up to 45 minutes. The contrast of the bright sunshine outside the cave in comparison to the magical glow inside is truly incredible to behold.

Tempio di Antas

The Tempio di Antas is an ancient Roman temple built by the emperor Caracalla and can give visitors an excellent taste of history on their holidays to Sardinia. The temple was created by the nuraghic people, to worship the Sardinian deity Sardus Pater. It was rediscovered in the 1800s and restored in the late sixties using the excavated remains of original columns. It is a highly impressive recreation of what the original Tempio di Antas would have looked like, and visitors can really get a feel for the ancient civilisation.

Cattedrale di Santa Maria

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria dates back to the 13th century, and was originally comprised of heavy Gothic architecture. The cathedral is a living timeline in itself, as it has been adapted throughout the course of history to suit the décor of each particular era.

Within the bell tower the original Gothic aspects are clearly displayed and provide a glimpse into what the cathedral once looked like. It has been transformed by Baroque decor from the 17th-century, and is now defined by its bright frescoes and swirling sculptures.

Visiting the Cattedrale di Santa Maria can make for an inspiring afternoon for those looking to immerse in a little Sardinian culture. It is an ideal attraction for those interested in the history of Italian architecture and religion, or even just those who are curious about the past.

Carolyn Spinks is COO of ABTOI - The Association of British Travel Organisers to Italy. Looking for the perfect holidays to Sardinia ? The LoveItaly website provides destination information, contact details of tour operator members to help you plan the best Italian holiday, ‘insider’ tips, year round offers and information on everything from beach holidays in Sardinia, cycling in Sicily, to a wedding or honeymoon in Tuscany.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.