Discover Tiscali, a journey in Sardinia in the heart of the Supramonte between Dorgali and Oliena to unveil a hidden prehistoric village: the archaeological site of Tiscali
What is Tiscali?
The question may seem strange, but the truth is that there are multiple answers
- Tiscali is a mountain in Sardinia with a peak at about 520 meters above sea level
- Tiscali is an archaeological site of significant importance, still largely undiscovered
- Tiscali is a famous karstic sinkhole known for its large size
- Tiscali is a nuragic village where artifacts dating back to the 15th-13th century BC were discovered
- Tiscali is also a well-known telecommunications company founded in 1998 in Cagliari
It’s curious the contrast of images that the name Tiscali evokes. On one side, an ancestral place, on the other, a call to technological solutions
Tiscali, the timeless place
Tiscali is a nuragic village situated in the heart of Sardinia in the province of Nuoro. The archaeological site is located on the mountain of the same name between the Supramonte of Oliena and the Supramonte of Dorgali. It is a gigantic karst sinkhole within which one can see the remains of the famous nuragic village.
It is a place difficult to describe because it is very different from the life one has grown accustomed to in large cities. A timeless place where one breathes an astounding convergence of traditions and ancestral emotions.
The landscape offers incredible and varied views. A breathtaking view of Mount Corrasi, the lush Lanaittu valley, a series of gorges with imposing cliffs, ledges, caves, and crevices, springs among oaks, junipers, and ancient olive trees shaped by the wind.
Along the path to the village, among passages in the rocks and viewpoints, one can admire a multitude of typical plants of Sardinia and sometimes have special encounters with the animals that inhabit the mountain.
Tiscali is an unforgettable mountain waiting to be discovered.
The legend of Tiscali
The area surrounding the nuragic village of Tiscali is rich in legends and historical events. According to local tradition, the wild landscape served as a refuge for post-nuragic rebels who resisted Roman rule. It is said that these rebel groups, known as iliens, used guerrilla tactics and exploited the natural fortress of Tiscali to launch surprise attacks on Roman garrisons. It was believed that the rebels disappeared among the mountains, evading capture by Roman forces.
Stories recount how these elusive fighters would emerge from underground tunnels like ants, striking swiftly and then fading back into the shadow of the mountains.
Additionally, legends speak of a narrow passage that was the only access point to the sinkhole, the natural refuge of Tiscali. It is rumored that a small group of archers could effectively defend this entrance against a legion of Roman soldiers. The rebellious spirit of the iliens persisted through the imperial era, prompting the Roman legionaries to employ Neapolitan mastiffs in their efforts to root out these elusive rebels from the rugged terrain of the Supramonte.
The region surrounding the nuragic village of Tiscali is not only a site of historical significance but also a place where myths and legends intertwine with the rich fabric of the past, adding an air of mystery and intrigue to this ancient landscape.
Tiscali between nature and architecture
The nuragic village of Tiscali is characterized as a hidden archaeological treasure situated atop a mountain ridge in a picturesque corner of the Barbagia region. This unique underground settlement stands out for its topography and architecture, located within a massive sinkhole formed by a collapse in the "ceiling" of the mountain. Mount Tiscali, rising just over 500 meters, acts as a barrier between the wild Lanaittu valley to the west and the gentle and fertile Oddoene valley to the east. Inside the mountain lies the sinkhole, originally a karst cave before the ceiling collapsed and the area became covered with lush vegetation including oaks, junipers, ash trees, wild olives, mastic trees, and figs.
Why Tiscali is unique
The nuragic village of Tiscali stands out for its unique topography and architecture. This archaeological treasure is hidden on the crest of a mountain. What makes it unique is its position in a massive sinkhole formed by a collapse in the "ceiling" of the same relief. Its architectures reflect a distinctive nuragic settlement, perhaps used as the last refuge of the late nuragic people against the Roman advance.
Where Tiscali is located
The exact location of the archaeological site of Tiscali with the nuragic village is on Mount Tiscali situated between the municipalities of Dorgali and Oliena in the heart of the Supramonte. The coordinates N 40.241618, E 9.491576. This location is positioned between the Lanaittu valley and the Oddoene valley, not far in a straight line from the spectacular Gorropu gorge.
Mount Tiscali is also about a 15-20 minute drive from the famous spring of Su Gologone. The archaeological site is accessible only on foot via the trail that climbs the mountain.
The hike to Tiscali is a mountain trip that allows you to discover an unusual Sardinia, far from the coast and the beaches.
The village of Tiscali
Tiscali is a place with a mysterious and evocative atmosphere where time has truly stopped. On the rocky wall of the sinkhole opens a wide window overlooking the valley of Lanaittu. The remains of the village of Tiscali are hidden from sight and become visible only when one enters the sinkhole.
Inside the settlement, the remains of many prehistoric huts and houses are visible. The village's location is far from the coasts with a single access point that is easy to control and difficult to reach. These features have made Tiscali village a safe refuge, a perfect hideout for the populations that inhabited Sardinia.
Discover a karst sinkhole
A sinkhole is simply a closed basin, a “valley”, which usually forms in the presence of limestone rocks. There are various types of sinkholes, and the sinkhole where the village of Tiscali stands is presumably formed by the collapse of the ceiling of a huge cave in ancient times. The landslide is still visible today and has been completely colonized by local flora.
How to get to Tiscali
There are various routes to reach the foothills of Mount Tiscali, one of which is through the Lanaittu valley which can be reached by car. The last kilometers before the designated parking areas are traveled along a dirt road.
After leaving the car, you continue on foot following the white and red signs of the CAI – Club Alpino Italiano – which indicate the marked trails. The hike to reach the archaeological site takes about 2 hours.
Although the trail is marked, it is generally better not to improvise as explorers. Rely on experienced guides and wear appropriate clothing.
Excursions to Tiscali
Visitors to the beautiful area of Dorgali and Oliena have a plethora of activities to choose from, ranging from challenging treks and excursions to the exploration of archaeological wonders. Local operators offer guided excursions to the fascinating site of Tiscali, where visitors can delve into the history of the Nuragic village.
For a more relaxed experience, it is worth visiting the Dorgali Archaeological Museum and the impressive Ispinigoli cave.
The excursion to Tiscali includes a full day adventure featuring a 2-hour uphill walk to reach the archaeological site, followed by a visit of about 30 minutes.
All excursions to discover Tiscali, whether done independently or as organized trips, last almost an entire day, so it’s best to prepare with food and water. The descent usually takes about 2 hours, ensuring a well-rounded outdoor experience. Proper precautions must be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
The excursion is suitable for physically fit individuals, including children around 6-8 years old who are used to walking.
Essentials include a trekking backpack for kids, water, and clothing for protection from the sun and wind, as bathroom facilities are limited along the route.
By following these precautions, visitors can fully appreciate the beauty and history of Tiscali and its surroundings while staying safe and comfortable during the adventure.
What to bring
It is very useful to bring a hat for sun protection and also a windbreaker or clothing to cover up once you reach the summit. Bring comfortable hiking shoes and cash to pay for the entrance ticket to the archaeological site. If you are not experienced in hiking, rely on local guides who will organize the day and make it truly unforgettable.
Tiscali entrance prices
Entrance to the archaeological site is paid; for access to the basin, the ticket is € 5.00 per person for adults and € 2.50 for children (from 7 to 12 years) and seniors (from 70 years). The archaeological site is manned year-round; in autumn and winter, it is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and in spring and summer from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
A special task: once inside the archaeological site, there is a guide who works at the site, who “commutes” daily by following the path that leads to the summit. The journey the guide takes to work on foot lasts about 40 minutes and winds through a uniquely beautiful natural setting.
How can visitors ensure safety and fun during their excursions in areas like Tiscali and its surroundings?
Visitors can ensure safety and fun during their excursions by taking precautions, such as relying on expert guides, wearing appropriate clothing, bringing water and supplies, and being prepared for the rugged terrain and outdoor experiences in the Tiscali region.
What types of clothing and equipment should visitors bring with them for excursions, such as water, appropriate clothing, and hiking gear?
Visitors should bring suitable clothing, a trekking backpack with water supplies, and clothing to protect against the sun and wind. Additionally, it is advisable to carry plenty of water and packed lunches like sandwiches and dried fruit for breaks during hikes.
Why is it important for visitors not to improvise on hiking trails and rely on expert guides for their safety?
It is important not to improvise on hiking trails and to rely on expert guides to ensure safety during hikes through the rugged landscapes and archaeological sites near Tiscali.
What points of interest or specific locations can visitors explore in the areas of Dorgali and Oliena, such as the Flumineddu river, the Surtana steps, and the su Gologone oasis?
Visitors on the Dorgali side can enjoy views of the Flumineddu river and climb the steep Surtana steps to reach the mountain top. On the Oliena side, hikes include a visit to the lush oasis of su Gologone and embarking on a steep and rugged path towards Tiscali.
Visitors are advised not to improvise on hiking trails but to rely on expert guides, wear appropriate clothing, and carry sufficient water supplies to ensure safety during hikes.
What to do in Dorgali and surroundings
In the Dorgali and Oliena area, there are many operators that organize and conduct trekking excursions, and there are cooperatives that provide guides to go to Tiscali. In the area, you can also find the Dorgali Archaeological Museum – which is worth a visit – and the Ispinigoli cave, truly very suggestive. In the surroundings, you can also visit the spring of Su Gologone and the town of Cala Gonone and take a trip in the Gulf of Orosei.
Tiscali: Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a hike to Tiscali take?
The hike takes approximately the whole day. To reach the archaeological site, it takes about 2 hours on foot along an uphill trail. The visit to the archaeological site that hosts the Nuragic village has variable duration, with an average time of about 30 minutes. After the visit, there is generally a break for refreshments with a packed lunch (sandwiches and dried fruit are recommended). After enjoying the landscape, the descent begins, which takes about 2 hours.
Is the Tiscali hike suitable for children?
The trip is suitable for all physically fit individuals, including children (better from 6-8 years up) as long as they are used to walking. If infants are involved, it is necessary to have a trekking backpack for children, water, and clothing to protect from sun and wind. Consider that you will be outdoors all day and there are no bathroom facilities.
Carefully assess whether this experience is suitable for the child you are considering bringing with you, as the uphill walk lasts about 2 hours. After the walk to reach the archaeological site, there is a visit to the Nuragic village – lasting about 30-45 minutes. Then the descent along the path, which will take about 2 hours.
How to reach the Tiscali village?
After driving along the dirt road that crosses the Lainattu valley, you reach the foothills of the mountain. Park the car in the clearings and continue on foot following the white and red signs of the CAI – Club Alpino Italiano.
What are the prices for the Tiscali excursion?
The entrance ticket to the archaeological site is € 5.00 per person for adults and € 2.50 for children (from 7 to 12 years) and seniors (from 70 years).
What are the opening hours of the Tiscali site?
The archaeological site is open and manned year-round; in autumn and winter, the opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and in spring and summer from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
What legends are associated with the Nuragic village of Tiscali?
What are the characteristics and layout of the settlement inside the Tiscali mountain?
What are the natural characteristics of the Tiscali village?
The Nuragic village of Tiscali is characterized as a hidden archaeological treasure situated atop a mountain ridge in a picturesque corner of the Barbagia region. This unique underground settlement stands out for its topography and architecture, located inside a huge sinkhole formed from a collapse in the mountain's