A prehistoric village with a sea view at Nuraghe Mannu – in Sardinia

If you look at the map, you can see why the Nuraghic village of Nuraghe Mannu was sighted where it was. Aside from any considerations of an outstanding sea view, it is high on the cliffs at the centre of the crescent shaped Gulf of Orosei, with a ravine dropping away at one side and a mountainous outcrop at its back. Not much danger of being taken by surprise then.

View from Nuraghe Mannu, Sardinia

You can still climb what remains of the single watch tower which might once have signalled the first signs of danger to a whole series of watch towers along this coast. As you clamber over the fallen walls of square cut basalt stone, you have to imagine the large village that thrived here during the Nuragic age between 1500 and 1000 years BC. At that time the coastal area was a dangerous place to be, under constant threat from raiders from the sea.

The village was first identified as being of archaeological interest in the 1930s and has been subject to several excavations over the last 10 years. You can see the crates of ceramics they found piled high near the site entrance. If you’re interested in the ancient history of Sardinia it’s worth a visit, but don’t leave your imagination at home or it could just look like an old pile of stones.

You can see all my photos on Flickr from Nuraghe Mannu here

More Sardinia articles to enjoy

Medieval Frescos at Orosei
Sea Caves and a boat trip
A prehistoric village with a sea view
Swimming in River pools

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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