The Museum Polo Casa Zapata
Located in the picturesque Marmilla region, less than an hour from Cagliari, Casa Zapata stands as a fascinating 17th-century palace, witness to the history of a noble family and guardian of amazing cultural treasures.
In this article, we will explore the magnificent residence that once belonged to the Zapata family, uncovering unexpected Nuragic testimonies: the Zapata Palace in Sardinia indeed houses a nuraghe.
The Origins of Palazzo Zapata
The noble residence of the Zapata family in Barumini is a palace, built at the end of the 16th century by Don Azor, mayor of Cagliari. The palace rises above the remains of a nuraghe, giving the building a truly unique history.
Since 2006, this Spanish residence has been transformed into a museum complex, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the richness of Hispanic architecture and Nuragic culture.
A Museum Rich in Stories
Casa Zapata was initially focused on enhancing the finds from the nearby Nuraghe di Barumini. Archaeological discoveries have instead revealed that the palace was built directly above a nuraghe.
The excavation work has allowed for the preservation of the house's structure and has provided visitors with a unique perspective, allowing them to walk over a covered nuraghe, through suspended walkways and transparent floors.
Inside Casa Zapata, visitors can explore an archaeological section that includes perfectly visible parts of the nuraghe, along with a collection of artifacts from Su Nuraxi Barumini.
The historical archive section houses thousands of documents that recount the story of the Zapata family since 1541, when Azor acquired the fief of Barumini.
The ethnographic section also offers a fascinating insight into the daily and agricultural life of the 20th century, with a particular focus on the regional museum of Launeddas, which preserves ancient Sardinian musical instruments with three reeds.
The Museo Casa Zapata in Barumini is a museum complex organized into three sections: the Ethnographic Section, the Archaeological Section, and the Historical Section. The structure is located in the 16th-century Spanish residence built by the Aragonese family of Zapata.
Archaeological Section
The Archaeological Section of the Museo Casa Zapata in Barumini is dedicated to the Nuragic and Roman culture of the region. The section features a vast collection of artifacts, including pottery, basalt tools, coins, and other objects of historical and archaeological value. In particular, the section is known for its nuragic complex, which includes suspended pathways and glass floors.
Ethnographic Section
The Ethnographic Section of the Museo Casa Zapata in Barumini showcases a large collection of traditional musical instruments, costumes, everyday objects, and handcrafted items, representative of the culture and daily life of the Marmilla region.
Historical Section
The Historical Section of the Museo Casa Zapata in Barumini displays a large collection of objects and historical artifacts, including documents, books, weapons, and other items of historical and cultural value. The section is dedicated to the history of the Barumini region and the city of Cagliari.
The Museo Casa Zapata in Barumini also offers guided tours for visitors who wish to deepen their understanding of the culture and history of the region. In summary, the Museo Casa Zapata is a highly interesting tourist attraction, providing a unique and rewarding cultural experience for anyone wishing to discover the history and culture of the Marmilla region.
The Architecture of Casa Zapata
Casa Zapata is a historical complex located in Barumini, Sardinia. This residence was commissioned by the Aragonese family of Zapata at the end of the 16th century. Members of this family arrived in Sardinia in 1323, accompanying the Infante Alfonso who was preparing to conquer the island. Casa Zapata has been restored and now hosts a museum that tells the story of the Zapata family and Sardinia.
The building represents a splendid example of Hispanic architecture in Sardinia, characterized by classic lines and great elegance in decoration. The facade of the palace features a portal and windows with triangular pediments, a style that reflects the classical taste of the Zapata patrons.
The residence of the Zapata family is an example of noble architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries. The palace has undergone various restoration interventions over the centuries, the last of which took place in the 1990s. The restoration has allowed for the recovery of the original structure of the palace, which today houses the Museum Polo “Casa Zapata,” organized into three sections: the Archaeological Section, the Historical Section, and the Ethnographic Section.
The Casa Zapata residence is an important historical heritage of Sardinia and represents an example of noble architecture in the region.
In the Surroundings of Casa Zapata
Barumini is a city rich in history and tradition. The city offers many opportunities to discover the culture and traditions of Sardinia. The Romanesque Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Museum of Launeddas are just some of the cultural attractions that Barumini has to offer.
The Church of San Giovanni Battista in Barumini is a small and delightful Romanesque church likely consecrated in the early 1300s. Built of red volcanic rock and yellow sandstone, it represents a splendid example of Romanesque architecture.
The Museum of Launeddas is an ethnographic and historical museum dedicated to traditional Sardinian music. The museum is located near Casa Zapata in Barumini and has a section dedicated to launeddas, the traditional musical instrument of Sardinia. The museum houses a vast collection of launeddas. It is a must-visit for those interested in Sardinian traditional culture and music.
The nuragic complex of Su Nuraxi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located near Casa Zapata. This archaeological site is one of the most important in Sardinia and serves as a significant landmark in the island's history. This recognition is due to its historical and cultural importance as well as its exceptional preservation. The complex has been restored and is a place of great charm and allure, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the millennia-old history of Sardinia and discover the wonders of archaeology.
The Giara di Gesturi and the Marmilla hinterland are places of great natural beauty, while the cultural heritage and local traditions make Barumini a unique destination. Casa Zapata is a must-see attraction in Sardinia for anyone wanting to learn about its history and culture.
Where Casa Zapata Is Located
Near the Nuraghe Barumini, Casa Zapata is located in southern-central Sardinia
Opening Hours of Casa Zapata
The Casa Zapata Museum in Barumini is open every day from 09:00 to 17:00/17:30 in the winter period and until 20:00 in the summer period.
access allowed only with ticket
don't litter in the area
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Casa Zapata located?
Casa Zapata is located in Sardinia, in Barumini, in the central-southern area of Sardinia
What are the opening hours of the Casa Zapata museum in Barumini?
Casa Zapata in Barumini is open every day from 09:00 to 17:00/17:30 in the winter period and until 20:00 in the summer period.
How can tickets be purchased to visit Palazzo Zapata in Barumini?
Tickets to visit Palazzo Zapata in Barumini can be purchased directly at the museum's ticket office. Alternatively, tickets for access to the museum can be purchased during the visit to the Nuraghe Barumini.
Who was the Zapata family and what role did they play in the history of Barumini?
The Zapata family was an Aragonese noble family that arrived in Sardinia in 1323, accompanying the Infante Alfonso who was preparing to conquer the island. In 1541, the family acquired the Barony of Las Plassas, Barumini and Villanovafranca, becoming the owners of various lands and palaces in the area. The Palazzo Zapata in Barumini was built by the family in the 16th century and now houses the Museo Casa Zapata.
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