The Largest Nuraghe
The Nuraghe Arrubiu is so far the largest nuraghe in Sardinia. This imposing structure is the only known pentalobate nuraghe recognized for its magnificent constructions that altogether cover an extensive area of about 5000 m².
This nuraghe is formally larger than Barumini since Arrubiu is a single nuraghe, while Barumini is a nuragic complex made up of multiple buildings.
The Structure of Nuraghe Rosso
The dating of Nuraghe Rosso was made possible by the discovery of a Mycenaean ceramic – an Alabastron – found in its central tower, which seems to date back to the 14th century B.C.
The pentalobate structure of Nuraghe Arrubiu in Orroli consists of 5 peripheral towers positioned around the central tower with a courtyard. The enormous structure stands as a stronghold in a territory dotted with archaeological sites and boasts many smaller nuraghes, giants' tombs, and Domus de Janas.
Why Arrubiu is a Red Giant
Nuraghe Arrubiu is commonly referred to as the red nuraghe or red giant.
Giant because it is currently the largest nuraghe ever excavated
Red for the color that the lichens give to its walls
The vegetation around is made up of many olive trees and 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 coloring
What to See at Nuraghe Rosso
In the surroundings of Orroli on the suggestive basalt plateau of Sarcidano Pran’e Muru, over 50 nuraghes have been cataloged, which presumably depended directly on the large pentalobate nuraghe located at the center of the area. The Red Giant with its 5 towers dominates the high plateau, almost overseeing the area. Between the towers and the courtyards, different environments can be distinguished, which were designated for various activities; let’s see some of them.
the kitchen tower or the lambs' 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 were prepared based on bread, cereals, fruits, and meats. 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 tower of bread
among the clearly identified environments is the famous bread tower for use by women, where presumably flour was ground, kneaded, and baked. Therefore, there was a real bakery; near this room is the silo where cereals were stored
the winemaking laboratories
inside the nuraghe, 2 Roman winemaking laboratories were found where the winemaking process took place. The laboratories have been relocated to the area adjacent to the nuraghe and are visible during the visit
the sword tomb
The tomb of the giants called Tomb of the Sword is located about 200 meters from the nuraghe - due to the discovery of two votive swords 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 block of basalt entirely carved, along with remains of typical Sardinian bronzes, ceramics, wine bowls, and deer horn remnants, were discovered. Remains that confirmed that the burial types were collective have also been found.
Nuragic huts
Nearby the nuraghe, there are also visitable huts, including the large round meeting hut equipped with benches and a fireplace.
Where to find Nuraghe Arrubiu
Nuraghe Arrubiu is the largest nuraghe in Sardinia and – therefore – the largest nuraghe in the world today; it is located in the territory of Orroli in the province of South Sardinia, in the historical subregion of Sarcidano.
Orroli is about 70 km north of Cagliari, near Nurri, Perdasdefogu, Senorbì, and San Basilio. The location is only 30 km east of one of the most famous and visited nuraghes: Barumini.
Arrubiu is known by the nickname of Red Giant because it is a huge monumental structure that surpasses all the nuraghes investigated to date. The red color – arrubiu – is due to the shades that the red lichens give to the stones that make it up.
The Red Nuraghe is one of the archaeological sites in Sardinia that must be visited.
Nuraghe Arrubiu Opening Hours
Nuraghe Arrubiu is open every day from 9:30 until sunset.
Guided tours are available all day without the need for reservation, but are not conducted during the break from 13:00 to 15:00.
Night guided tours – very suggestive – are available by reservation for groups of at least 25 people.
Access allowed only with a ticket
Access allowed with dogs on a leash
No climbing on the structures
Do not throw waste in the area
Nuraghe Arrubiu Ticket Prices
The rates for purchasing a ticket for access to the archaeological site with a guided tour are:
- Adults € 5.00
- Young people – from 6 to 18 years € 3.00
Group rates for a minimum of 25 people are € 4.00 per participant.
For information and updated rates, visit Nuraghe Arrubiu.
30 Photographs of Nuraghe Arrubiu
Images of interiors and exteriors Nuraghe Arrubiu
Frequently asked questions
The most frequently asked questions about the Nuraghe Rosso
What is the largest nuraghe in Sardinia?
It is the Nuraghe Arrubiu in Orroli, also known as the Giant Red. To date, it is the largest nuraghe ever discovered and investigated and one of the most beautiful and important in Sardinia.
Where is the 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. Only 30 km from one of the most famous and visited nuraghi: Barumini.
How much does the entrance ticket to the Nuraghe Rosso cost?
The ticket price to see the Nuraghe Arrubiu is € 5.00 for adults and € 3.00 for young people 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 lot is located in the square in front of the archaeological site.