The Largest Nuraghe
The Nuraghe Arrubiu is so far the largest nuraghe in Sardinia. This imposing structure is the only one with a pentagonal plan known for its magnificent constructions that cover a vast area of about 5000 m².
This nuraghe is formally larger than Barumini, as Arrubiu is a single nuraghe, while Barumini is a nuragic complex made up of multiple constructions.
The Structure of the Red Nuraghe
The dating of the Red Nuraghe was made possible by the discovery of Mycenaean pottery in its central tower – an Alabastron – which seems to date back to the 14th century B.C.
The pentagonal structure of Nuraghe Arrubiu in Orroli consists of 5 peripheral towers positioned around the central tower with the courtyard. The enormous structure stands out as a stronghold in an area dotted with archaeological sites and boasting many smaller nuraghes, tombs of the giants, and Domus de Janas.
Why Arrubiu is a Red Giant
Nuraghe Arrubiu is commonly referred to as red nuraghe or red giant.
Giant because it is currently the largest nuraghe ever investigated.
Red for the color that the lichens give to its walls.
The vegetation in the surroundings consists of many olive trees, plants, and shrubs typical of the Mediterranean scrub.
9 Lichen Photos of Nuraghe Arrubiu
See the photographs of the lichens that give the nuraghe its unique coloration.
What to See at the Red Nuraghe
In the surroundings of Orroli on the suggestive basalt plateau of Sarcidano Pran’e Muru, over 50 nuraghes have been catalogued that presumably depended directly on the large pentagonal nuraghe located at the center of the area. The Red Giant with its 5 towers dominates the highland, almost overseeing the zone. Between the towers and the courtyards, various environments can be distinguished that were dedicated to different activities; let's look at some of them.
The Kitchen or Lamb Tower
The Nuraghe Arrubiu is divided into different environments, including a paved kitchen located at the lower margin of one of the towers. In the kitchen, meals based on bread, cereals, fruit, and meat were prepared. The kitchen room is located near the remains of a hearth and is directly connected to the courtyard where it is believed meals were consumed.
The Women's Tower or Bread Tower
Among the clearly identified environments is the famous bread tower for women, where flour was presumably ground, kneaded, and baked. There was a proper bakery; near this room is the silo where cereals were stored.
Enological Laboratories
Within the nuraghe, two Roman enological laboratories were found where the winemaking process took place. The laboratories were moved to the area adjacent to the nuraghe and are visible during the visit.
The Sword Tomb
about 200 meters from the nuraghe, there is the tomb of the giants called Tomb of the Sword - due to the discovery of two votive blades inside. The tomb, dated between the 14th and 13th centuries B.C. (Bronze Age), unfortunately, has little left to appreciate today. It is, however, considered a megalithic tomb of high archaeological value; during excavations and studies, a completely carved basalt block was found along with remains of typical Sardinian bronzes, ceramics, wine bowls, and deer horn remains. Remains have also been discovered confirming that the burial types were collective
Nuraghic huts
near the nuraghe, there are also huts to visit, including the large round meeting hut equipped with seats and a fireplace
Where to find Nuraghe Arrubiu
The Nuraghe Arrubiu is the largest nuraghe in Sardinia and – therefore – currently the largest nuraghe in the world; it is located in the territory of Orroli in the province of South Sardinia, in the historical subregion of Sarcidano.
Orroli is located about 70 km north of Cagliari, near Nurri, Perdasdefogu, Senorbì, and San Basilio. The location is just 30 km east of one of the most famous and visited nuraghes: Barumini.
Arrubiu is known by the nickname Red Giant because it is an enormous monumental structure that surpasses all nuraghes investigated so far. The red color – arrubiu – is due to the shades that red lichens give to the stones that compose it.
The Red Nuraghe is one of the archaeological sites in Sardinia that must be visited.
Opening Hours Nuraghe Arrubiu
The Nuraghe Arrubiu is open every day from 9:30 until sunset.
Guided tours are available throughout the day without the need for reservations; they are not conducted during the break from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Night guided tours – very impressive – are available by reservation for groups of at least 25 people
access allowed exclusively with a ticket
access allowed with leashed dogs
no climbing on the structures
do not litter in the area
Ticket Prices Nuraghe Arrubiu
The rates for purchasing a ticket for access to the archaeological site with guided tour are:
- Adults € 5.00
- Teens – from 6 to 18 years € 3.00
The rates for groups of at least 25 people are € 4.00 per participant
For info and updated rates visit Nuraghe Arrubiu
30 Photographs Nuraghe Arrubiu
Images of the interiors and exteriors of Nuraghe Arrubiu
Frequently Asked Questions
The most frequently asked questions about Nuraghe Rosso
What is the largest nuraghe in Sardinia?
It is the Nuraghe Arrubiu in Orroli, also known as the Red Giant. To date, it is the largest nuraghe ever discovered and investigated, as well as one of the most beautiful and important in Sardinia.
Where is Nuraghe Rosso located?
The Nuraghe Arrubiu is located in Orroli in the province of South Sardinia, 70 km north of Cagliari, near Nurri, Perdasdefogu, Senorbì, and San Basilio. Just 30 km from one of the most famous and visited nuraghes: Barumini.
How much does the entrance ticket to Nuraghe Rosso cost?
The ticket price to see the Nuraghe Arrubiu is € 5.00 for adults and € 3.00 for children aged 6 to 18 years.
The rates for groups of at least 25 people are € 4.00 per participant.
Where can I park at Nuraghe Arrubiu?
The parking area is located in the square in front of the archaeological site.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the Nuraghe Arrubiu located?
- The Nuraghe Arrubiu is located in the municipality of Orroli, in the Sarcidano region of Sardinia. It is accessible from main roads and is situated in an area rich in other archaeological sites.
- What is the history of the Nuraghe Arrubiu?
- The Nuraghe Arrubiu dates back to the 14th century BC and is known for being the largest nuraghe in Sardinia. Its pentalobed structure and the presence of Mycenaean ceramics testify to the site's importance in ancient times.
- What to see at Nuraghe Arrubiu?
- At Nuraghe Arrubiu, you can explore several structures, including the central tower and the peripheral towers. Additionally, you can visit the Roman wine-making laboratories and the nearby site of the Sword Tomb.
- How to get to Nuraghe Arrubiu?
- The Nuraghe Arrubiu is easily reachable by car, following the signs for Orroli. Parking is available nearby, from where the visitor path begins.
- Are there guides available for the visit to Nuraghe Arrubiu?
- Yes, it is advisable to book a local guide who can provide detailed information about the history and architecture of the nuraghe. During the visit, experienced guides can enrich the experience with interesting stories.
- What is the best time to visit Nuraghe Arrubiu?
- The best time to visit Nuraghe Arrubiu is in spring and autumn, when temperatures are milder. During summer, the temperatures can be high, while winter may be quite cold.
- Are there facilities available for tourists near Nuraghe Arrubiu?
- Near Nuraghe Arrubiu, there are several accommodations such as agriturismos and bed & breakfasts. Additionally, dining spots are available to savor local cuisine.