The Museum Pole Casa Zapata
Located in the charming Marmilla region, less than an hour away from Cagliari, Casa Zapata stands as an enchanting 17th-century palace, a witness to the history of a noble family and custodian of surprising 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 inside.
The Origins of Palazzo Zapata
The noble residence of the Zapata family in Barumini is a palace built in the late 16th century by Don Azor, the mayor of Cagliari. The palace stands on the remains of a nuraghe, giving the building a truly unique history.
Since 2006, this Spanish residence has been transformed into a museum pole, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the richness of Hispanic architectural culture and nuragic culture.
A Museum Rich in Stories
Casa Zapata was initially focused on enhancing the artifacts from the nearby Nuraghe di Barumini. Archaeological discoveries instead revealed that the palace was built right over a nuraghe.
The excavation intervention has allowed to preserve the house structure and provide visitors with a unique perspective, allowing them to walk on a covered nuraghe, through suspended walkways and glass 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 houses thousands of documents narrating 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 particular attention to the regional museum of Launeddas, which preserves ancient Sardinian three-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 Spanish residence built in the 16th century 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 features 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 pathways 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 handcrafted items, representing the culture and daily life of the Marmilla region.
Historical Section
The Historical Section of the Museo Casa Zapata in Barumini displays a vast collection of historical objects and artifacts, including documents, books, weapons, and other objects 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 knowledge of the culture and history of the region. In summary, the Museo Casa Zapata is a highly interesting tourist attraction, providing a unique and fulfilling 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 built by the Aragonese Zapata family in the late 16th century. Members of this family arrived in Sardinia in 1323 in the wake of Infante Alfonso who was preparing for the conquest of the island. Casa Zapata has been restored and now hosts a museum that tells the story of the Zapata family and Sardinia.
The building is a splendid example of Spanish architecture in Sardinia, characterized by classic lines and elegant decorations. The facade of the palace features a portal and windows with triangular pediments, a style that reflects the classic 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 several restoration interventions over the centuries, the most recent of which was carried out in the 1990s. The restoration has allowed for the recovery of the original structure of the palace, which is now home to the Museum Pole "Casa Zapata" organized into three sections: the Archaeological Section, the Historical Section, and the Ethnographic Section.
The residence of Casa Zapata is an important historical heritage of Sardinia and represents an example of noble architecture of 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 14th century. Built of red volcanic rock and yellow sandstone, it represents a splendid example of Romanesque church 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 houses a vast collection of launeddas, making it a must-visit for those interested in Sardinian culture and traditional 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 represents 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 suggestion, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the millennia-long history of Sardinia and discover the wonders of archaeology.
The Giara di Gesturi and the hinterland of Marmilla are areas of great natural beauty, while the cultural heritage and local traditions make Barumini a unique place. Casa Zapata is an unmissable attraction to see in Sardinia for those looking to learn about its history and culture.
Where to Find Casa Zapata
Near the Nuraghe Barumini, Casa Zapata is located in southern-central Sardinia.
Opening Hours Casa Zapata
The museum pole Casa Zapata in Barumini is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00/17:30 in winter and until 20:00 in summer.
access allowed exclusively with a ticket
do not litter in the area
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 daily from 09:00 to 17:00/17:30 in winter and until 20:00 in summer.
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 ticket office. Alternatively, tickets to access the museum may be purchased 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 accompanying Infante Alfonso, who was preparing to conquer the island. In 1541, the family acquired 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 today houses the Casa Zapata museum.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the opening hours of the Casa Zapata Museum?
- The Casa Zapata Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours varying by season. It is advisable to check the museum's official website for any changes.
- Is a reservation necessary for guided tours at the Casa Zapata Museum?
- Yes, it's advisable to book guided tours at the Casa Zapata Museum in advance, especially during peak tourist times. You can do so directly on the museum's website or by phone.
- What does the entrance ticket to the Casa Zapata Museum include?
- The entrance ticket to the Casa Zapata Museum includes access to the three sections: Archaeological, Ethnographic, and Historical. Additionally, it allows participation in scheduled guided tours.
- What can be seen in the Archaeological Section of Casa Zapata?
- In the Archaeological Section of the Casa Zapata Museum, you can admire a collection of Nuragic and Roman artifacts, including ceramics, coins, and tools. There are also suspended pathways that provide a unique view of the nuraghe below.
- Are there family activities at the Casa Zapata Museum?
- Yes, the Casa Zapata Museum organizes activities and educational workshops for families and children, offering a fun and engaging way to explore the history and culture of the region.
- How to get to the Casa Zapata Museum from Cagliari?
- You can reach the Casa Zapata Museum by car in about 45 minutes from Cagliari via the SS131. Alternatively, there are bus services connecting Cagliari to Barumini.
- What is the historical significance of Casa Zapata?
- Casa Zapata is an important example of Spanish architecture in Sardinia, built over a nuraghe, a symbolic element of Sardinian prehistory. Its history is closely tied to the Aragonese nobility and the Nuragic culture of the region.