The Archaeological Area of Romanzesu
The archaeological area of Romanzesu in the territory of Bitti is currently one of the most important in Sardinia. The areas investigated so far have revealed various sites
- the sacred well with a ceremonial basin and the nuragic amphitheater
- the cult enclosure – labyrinth
- 3 megaron temples
- the heroon – temple of the ambers
- the huts
However, recent studies suggest that only 10-15% of the potential extension of the nuragic village has been uncovered. This archaeological site certainly ranks among the must-see attractions in Sardinia during a holiday. Let's explore together the areas currently open to visitors
What to See in Romanzesu
Between Bitti and Budduso, in an extraordinary cork forest, surrounded by wild and unspoiled nature, lies the nuragic sanctuary village of Romanzesu. It is likely a federal village that covers an area of over 7 hectares, showcasing – and sometimes concealing – magnificent constructions from the nuragic period.
Among the structures and beauties that can be visited, we find:
the sacred spring
the nuragic amphitheater
3 megaron temples
the labyrinthine cult enclosure
the heroon temple of the ambers
the huts
the cork forest
The Sacred Spring
One of the most fascinating aspects of the archaeological site Romanzesu is the sacred spring which is connected via a walkway – once filled with water – to the enormous nuragic amphitheater.
It appears that in this area collective ceremonies and rites, related to the worship of water were performed. It is highly likely that this sacred area was visited by pilgrims and locals from nearby villages who took their places in the terraces and the large basin.
Near the walkway, some betili have been found, very similar to those that made the archaeological area of Tamuli near Macomer famous.
Betilo or betile: this refers to a stone attributed with a sacred function as it is believed to house a deity.
Nuragic Amphitheater
Near the sacred spring, the nuragic amphitheater opens up, composed of steps made with local stone.
This is a large circular basin that has a difference in height of about 1.50-1.60 m. It is believed that this basin once collected water that flowed from the spring, after surpassing the internal level of the well.
The basin is thought to have been used for ablutions and ceremonial rites.
Temples at Megaron
During the excavations, three rectangular megaron shrines were discovered. In the inner area of the temple, benches can be admired set against the perimeter walls
The Ritual Labyrinth
Unique in its beauty and allure is the construction of the ritual enclosure: a massive elliptical structure with staggered entrances, truly a labyrinth
Photos of Romanzesu and Cork Forest
Check out the photos of one of the most evocative archaeological sites in Sardinia immersed in the enchanting context of a cork forest and typical Mediterranean scrub plants
Map of the archaeological site Romanzesu
Where to find Romanzesu
Romanzesu is located in the territory of Bitti, halfway between the town of Bitti and Buddusò in the northern-central area of Sardinia in the historical subregion of Barbagia.
Romanzesu is easily reachable by car from Olbia, Nuoro, Cala Gonone, Oristano
Opening Hours Romanzesu
Winter hours for Romanzesu
Monday-Saturday: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM/2:30 PM-6:00 PM
Guided tour departures:
Morning: 9:15 AM– 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM
Afternoon: 2:45 PM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Guided tour departures:
9:30 AM-10:45 AM-12:00 PM-1:30 PM-2:45 PM-4:00 PM
Summer Hours Romanzesu
Monday-Saturday: 9.00 – 13.00 / 15.00 – 19.00
Guided tour departures:
Morning: 9.15 – 10.30 – 11.45
Afternoon: 15.15 – 16.30 – 17.45
Sunday: 9.30 – 13.00 / 14.30 – 19.00
Guided tour departures:
Morning: 9.30 – 10.30 – 11.45
Afternoon: 14.30 – 15.30 – 16.45 – 17.45
access allowed exclusively with ticket
no climbing on structures
don't litter in the area
Ticket Prices Romanzesu
The prices for purchasing a ticket for access to the archaeological site are:
Full ticket € 4 (exemption for children 0-11 years)
Organized groups and school classes (minimum 9 people) € 2.50 – (single ticket € 3)
Persons over 65 € 2.50 (single ticket € 3)
Persons with disabilities € 2.50 (single ticket € 3)
Single ticket museum visits Civil Pastoral and Agricultural/Multimedia Canto a Tenore/Romanzesu € 5
For info and updated rates please visit Romanzesu
Images of the Romanzesu Archaeological Site
