Safaris Bergsteigen Wandern Insewandern Weltweit

Europa Inselwandern

Städtewandern

Paintings

Dirk Rauschenbach

Mail ccooly( at) web.de

zurück

Nuraghe Nuraghesardinia Nuraghe sardinien Türeme aus Licht prähistorischeTurmbauten

A Nuraghe is a unique type of ancient stone structure found primarily in Sardinia, Italy. These structures are part of the Nuragic civilization, which flourished on the island from the Bronze Age (around 1800 BCE) to the Iron Age (around 500 BCE). They are one of the most distinctive archaeological features of Sardinia and a symbol of the island's prehistoric heritage.

Key Features of Nuraghe:

1. Architecture:

• Truncated Cone Shape: Nuraghes are often characterized by a cone-shaped or tower-like structure made from large stones without the use of mortar. The walls are typically thick, and the towers have a circular or elliptical base.
• Defensive Nature: Many nuraghes were likely built for defense, with features such as thick walls, small entrances, and multiple levels. These structures may have been used as fortresses, watchtowers, or settlements.
• Interior Layout: The interior of a nuraghe typically includes multiple rooms or chambers, sometimes arranged in a spiral or circular fashion, and some have stairways leading to upper levels. Some nuraghes are also equipped with recessed niches or pits, which might have had religious or practical functions.
• Corridors and Passageways: Many nuraghes feature interior corridors that connect different rooms. These corridors might have served as passageways between various parts of the structure, aiding in both defense and daily life.

2. Construction and Materials:

• Stone Construction: The primary material used for building nuraghes was local stone. The stones were carefully cut and placed together, often without mortar. The construction techniques used in nuraghes are highly sophisticated, and the structures have survived for millennia.
• Dry-Stone Masonry: The construction method is known as dry-stone masonry, meaning the stones are placed without the use of cement or mortar, relying instead on their weight and precise fitting to hold the structure together.

3. Types of Nuraghes:

• Simple Nuraghes: These are small, single-tower structures. They are often seen as the earliest form of nuraghe and were used for residential or defensive purposes.
• Complex Nuraghes: These are multi-towered structures, consisting of several interconnected towers, sometimes with elaborate internal rooms and passageways. The Nuraghe Su Nuraxi in Barumini is one of the most famous examples of a complex nuraghe.
• Giants' Tombs: Some nuraghes are associated with large tombs or burial chambers, which are referred to as Giants' Tombs. These were megalithic burial structures that often included a central corridor leading to a larger chamber, and may have had religious significance.

4. Purpose and Function:

• Defense: Many nuraghes were likely built as fortresses or defensive structures, especially in areas where control of territory and resources was crucial. The thick walls, strategic positioning, and narrow entrances provided protection from potential invaders.
• Religious Significance: Some nuraghes may have had ritual or religious significance, serving as places for ceremonies, offerings, or even astronomical observations. Artifacts like statuettes, pottery, and sacred items have been found in some nuraghes, indicating their spiritual role.
• Residential: Certain nuraghes were likely used as homes or villages. The presence of living spaces, storage areas, and communal rooms suggests that they were important centers for the social and domestic life of the Nuragic people.
• Symbol of Power: Nuraghes might also have been symbols of power, indicating the wealth and status of the local leaders or clans. The larger and more complex the nuraghe, the more it might have symbolized a community's strength and influence.

5. Famous Nuraghe Sites:

• Su Nuraxi di Barumini: This is the most famous and well-preserved nuraghe complex and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Barumini, it consists of a central tower surrounded by several smaller towers and is an excellent example of the Nuragic civilization's architectural and engineering skills.
• Nuraghe Losa: Located in the central part of Sardinia, this site features a complex nuraghe with a central tower and several secondary structures. It is known for its size and preservation.
• Nuraghe Santu Antine: Located in the northeastern part of Sardinia, this nuraghe is another impressive structure with a central tower and multiple surrounding chambers.
• Nuraghe Arrubiu: Situated in Orroli, this is one of the largest nuraghe complexes, featuring a well-preserved central tower and defensive walls.

6. Historical Significance:

• The Nuragic civilization that built these structures is considered to have been an indigenous culture of Sardinia, with a distinct language and social organization. They developed their own unique artistic and architectural styles, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy.
• While the exact reasons for the construction of nuraghes are not fully understood, their role in the development of Sardinian society is clear. They were likely important for community cohesion, providing both practical and symbolic functions for the people of Sardinia.

7. Modern Interest and Research:

• Archaeological sites like the Nuraghe Su Nuraxi continue to attract researchers and tourists. Excavations have uncovered many artifacts, tools, pottery, and other items that provide insights into the life and culture of the Nuragic people.
• Today, nuraghes are an important part of Sardinia's identity and cultural heritage, with many visitors exploring these ancient ruins as part of Sardinia’s rich history.

8. Nuraghe in Modern Culture:

• The Nuragic civilization remains a mystery in many respects, as very little written record has survived from the time. The nuraghe continues to captivate artists, historians, and visitors, and it has inspired modern interpretations and depictions in various forms of art, literature, and popular culture.

In summary, nuraghes are ancient, impressive stone structures scattered across Sardinia, built by the Nuragic civilization. They serve as a testament to the island’s long history, showcasing advanced building techniques, social organization, and a blend of practical and symbolic uses that continue to fascinate researchers and visitors today. If you’re ever in Sardinia, visiting these historical structures is an unforgettable experience!

26.02.25 Copyright   Dirk  Rauschenbach Koelnerstrasse 293 51702 Bergneustadt  Datenschutzerklaerung   02261 9788972  Mail ccooly( at) web.de