Necropoli di Ponte Secco
The "Ponte Secco" necropolis near Sassari is a prehistoric archaeological site in the Nurra region, featuring 13 "domus de janas" rock-cut tombs with unique bull protomes.
Location
The necropolis of Ponte Secco, nestled in a limestone ridge near Monte d'Accoddi by Sassari, is a remarkable testament to prehistoric Sardinian burial culture. It comprises thirteen "domus de janas," or "fairy houses," skillfully carved into the rock and serving as underground burial chambers.
Particularly captivating are the "protomes" carved into the rock walls, stylized depictions of bulls and rams. These symbols attest to the profound religious significance of these animals for the Sardinian communities of that era and are a unique testimony to their belief system. Some of these depictions are even inverted, adding an extra, mystical dimension.
This archaeological site, set within the rich historical landscape of the Nurra, offers visitors a profound insight into the lives and rituals of our ancestors. Despite its age and some natural erosion, such as cracks in the entrances, the tombs of Ponte Secco retain their original, magical character.
Highlights
- 13 rock-cut "domus de janas" (fairy houses)
- Unique bull and ram protomes at the entrances
- Proximity to the prehistoric altar of Monte d'Accoddi
- Deep insight into prehistoric Sardinian belief system
Tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain.
- Bring sun protection and water, especially in summer.
- Use a flashlight to better see internal details.
- Consider combining the visit with Monte d'Accoddi.
Practical information
Rules & notes
No information regarding dog restrictions.
Parking
- Available Yes
Parking information is not directly available, but the site is located in the Nurra region, near Monte d'Accoddi. It is presumed that parking, possibly free, is available.
Visit duration
Keine Angaben zur durchschnittlichen Besichtigungsdauer.
Admission
€6.00
The full entry fee is 6.00 EUR. Persons aged 14 and over pay the full price. People with disabilities and their companions may have reductions.
Guided tours
There is no specific information about guided tours or audio guides for the Necropoli di Ponte Secco.
Accessibility
As this is an archaeological site located in a limestone area, wheelchair accessibility is likely limited or not available. There is no specific information on this.
Visitor notes
The Necropoli di Ponte Secco is located in Nurra, the northwestern region of Sardinia, near the Altar of Monte d'Accoddi. It is an important underground burial site with an impressive protome at the entrance.
Attraction Features
Die Nekropole von Ponte Secco, eine unterirdische Grabanlage, befindet sich in der Nurra, einer Region im Nordwesten Sardiniens, unweit des Monte d'Accoddi. Sie beherbergt die Domus de Janas, von denen eine (bekannt als „das Grab des Häuptlings“) mit 18 Kammern und 250 Quadratmetern die größte ist, die jemals auf Sardinien entdeckt wurde. In byzantinischer Zeit wurde sie genutzt.
Opening hours
- Seasonal Yes
Open daily from 8:30 AM until one hour before sunset. The opening hours provided here are from a general list of managed archaeological sites in Sardinia. It is advisable to check the exact opening hours before visiting, as they may vary seasonally or refer to another site.
