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 approximately 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 Nuraghe Rosso
The dating of Nuraghe Rosso was made possible thanks to the discovery in its central tower of a Mycenaean ceramic – an Alabastron – which seems to date back to the 14th century BC.
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 a territory dotted with archaeological sites, boasting many smaller nuraghi, giants' tombs, and Domus de Janas.
Why Arrubiu is a Red Giant
The 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 surrounding vegetation consists of many olive trees, along with plants and shrubs typical of the Mediterranean scrub.
9 Photos of Lichens at Nuraghe Arrubiu
View the photographs of the lichens that give the nuraghe its unique coloration
What to See at Nuraghe Rosso
In the surroundings of Orroli on the suggestive basalt tableland of Sarcidano Pran’e Muru, over 50 nuraghi have been recorded that presumably depended directly on the great pentagonal nuraghe located at the center of the area. The Red Giant with its 5 towers dominates the plateau, almost overseeing the area. Between the towers and the courtyards, you can distinguish several spaces that were intended for different activities, let’s explore a few of them.
the kitchen or lamb tower
The Nuraghe Arrubiu is divided into several environments, including a paved kitchen located at the lower edge of one of the towers. In the kitchen, meals based on bread, cereals, fruits, and meats were prepared. The kitchen room is located near the remains of a hearth and is directly connected to the courtyard where meals were believed to be consumed
the women's tower or bread tower
Among the clearly identified environments is the famous bread tower used by women where flour was presumably ground, kneaded, and baked. There was therefore a real bakery, next to this room is the silo where the cereals were stored
the winemaking laboratories
Inside the nuraghe, two Roman winemaking laboratories have been found where the winemaking process took place. The laboratories have been moved to the area adjacent to the nuraghe and are visible during the visit
the sword tomb
a about 200 meters from the nuraghe is the giants' tomb known as the Tomb of the Sword - for the discovery of two votive blades inside it. Of the tomb, dated between the XIV and XIII centuries BCE (Bronze Age), unfortunately, little remains today to appreciate. It is considered a megalithic tomb of high archaeological value; during excavations and studies, a block of basalt entirely carved was found along with remains of typical Sardinian bronzes, ceramics, wine bowls, and remains of deer antlers. Furthermore, remains have been found that confirmed that the burial types were collective
nuragic huts
near the nuraghe, there are also visitable huts, including the large round meeting hut equipped with seats and a fireplace
Where is the Nuraghe Arrubiu
The Nuraghe Arrubiu is the largest nuraghe in Sardinia and – therefore – as of today 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 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 of Red Giant because it is a huge monumental structure that surpasses all nuraghes investigated to date. The red color – arrubiu – is due to the hues that red lichens give to the stones that comprise 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 all day without the need for reservation, except 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 exclusively with a ticket
access allowed with dogs on a leash
no climbing on the structures
don't litter in the area
Ticket Prices for Nuraghe Arrubiu
The rates for purchasing a ticket for access to the archaeological site with a guided tour are:
- Adults €5.00
- Children – 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 of Nuraghe Arrubiu
Images of the interiors and exteriors of 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 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 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. Just 30 km from one of the most famous and visited nuraghes: 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 kids – ages 6 to 18.
The rates for groups of at least 25 people are €4.00 per participant.
Where can you park at Nuraghe Arrubiu?
The parking is located in the square in front of the archaeological site.