The Museo Polo Casa Zapata
Located in the picturesque Marmilla region, less than an hour from Cagliari, Casa Zapata stands as an enchanting 17th-century palace, a testament to the history of a noble family and a guardian of surprising cultural treasures.
In this article, we will explore the magnificent residence that once belonged to the Zapata family, uncovering unexpected Nuragic evidence: the Palazzo Zapata in Sardinia indeed houses a Nuraghe inside its walls.
The Origins of Palazzo Zapata
The noble residence of the Zapata in Barumini is a palace, built at the end of the 16th century by Don Azor, the mayor of Cagliari. The palace sits atop the remains of a Nuraghe, giving the building a truly unique history.
Since 2006, this Spanish residence has been transformed into a museum hub, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the richness of Hispanic architectural and Nuragic culture.
A Museum Rich in Stories
Casa Zapata initially focused on enhancing artifacts from the nearby Nuraghe di Barumini. Archaeological discoveries, however, revealed that the palace was built directly over a Nuraghe.
The excavation work has preserved the structure of the house and offered visitors a unique perspective, allowing them to walk on a covered Nuraghe, through suspended walkways and transparent floors.
Inside Casa Zapata, visitors can explore an archaeological section that includes parts of the Nuraghe perfectly visible, along with a collection of artifacts from Su Nuraxi Barumini.
The historical archival section hosts thousands of documents that narrate the history 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 the Launeddas, which preserves ancient Sardinian reed musical instruments.
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 Zapata family.
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 displays a vast collection of artifacts, including ceramics, basalt tools, coins, and other objects of historical and archaeological value. In particular, the section is known for its Nuraghe complex, which includes suspended walkways and glass floors.
Ethnographic Section
The Ethnographic Section of the Museo Casa Zapata in Barumini exhibits a vast collection of traditional musical instruments, costumes, everyday objects, and handmade crafts, 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 broad collection of historical objects and artifacts, including documents, books, weapons, and other items of historical and cultural significance. 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 major tourist attraction that offers 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 historic complex located in Barumini, Sardinia. This residence was commissioned by the Aragonese Zapata family at the end of the 16th century. Members of this family arrived in Sardinia in 1323, accompanying Prince Alfonso who was preparing to conquer the island. Casa Zapata has been restored and now houses 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 classical lines and elegantly detailed decorations. The palace's facade features a portal and windows with triangular pediments, a style that reflects the classic taste of the Zapata commissioners.
The Zapata residence is an example of noble architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries. The palace has undergone several restoration interventions over the centuries, the last of which was carried out in the 1990s. The restoration has allowed for the recovery of the original structure of the palace, which today houses the Museum Hub "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 charming Romanesque church likely consecrated in the early 14th century. 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 the Launeddas, the traditional musical instrument of Sardinia. The museum hosts a vast collection of Launeddas and 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 reference point for 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 uncover the wonders of archaeology.
The Giara di Gesturi and the inland Marmilla area are places of great natural beauty, while the cultural heritage and local traditions make Barumini a unique location. Casa Zapata is a must-see attraction in Sardinia for those who want to learn about its history and culture.
Where Casa Zapata is Located
Near the Nuraghe Barumini, Casa Zapata is located in southern-central Sardinia
Casa Zapata Opening Hours
The Casa Zapata museum hub in Barumini is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00/17:30 in winter and until 20:00 in summer.
access allowed only with ticket
do not litter in the area
Frequently Asked Questions
The most frequently asked questions
Where is Casa Zapata located?
Casa Zapata is located in Sardinia, in Barumini, in the southern-central 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 winter and until 20:00 in summer.
How can tickets to visit Palazzo Zapata in Barumini be purchased?
Tickets to visit Palazzo Zapata in Barumini can be purchased directly at the museum ticket office. Alternatively, access tickets to the museum can be acquired during the visit to Nuraghe Barumini.
Who was the Zapata family and what role did they play in the history of Barumini?
The Zapata family was a noble Aragonese family that arrived in Sardinia in 1323 with Infante Alfonso who was preparing to conquer the island. In 1541, the family purchased the Barony of Las Plassas, Barumini, and Villanovafranca, becoming owners of several lands and palaces in the area. Palazzo Zapata in Barumini was built by the family in the 16th century and now houses the Casa Zapata museum.
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