Dolmens in Gallura

Dolmens in Gallura and throughout Sardinia are ancient megalithic tomb structures dating back to the Neolithic period, roughly 3000–2000 BCE. These dolmens, consisting of large upright stones supporting a horizontal capstone, were built by pre-Nuragic people and are among the earliest examples of monumental architecture in Sardinia. Scholars believe they served as collective burial sites, reflecting early ritual practices and beliefs in an afterlife, although some suggest they also held significance as territorial markers or ceremonial sites.

Key Aspects of Sardinian Dolmens:

  • Constructors: Pre-Nuragic peoples, likely tribal groups who lived in Sardinia before the arrival of the Nuragic civilization.
  • Historical Period: Late Neolithic to early Bronze Age.
  • Symbolism: Dolmens are often associated with spiritual or religious significance, serving as tombs for high-ranking individuals or as ritualistic structures. They demonstrate early Sardinian communities’ connections to death and the afterlife, as well as their understanding of engineering and stonework.

Principal Dolmens in Sardinia

  1. Dolmen di Luras
  • Location: Near Luras, Gallura
  • Description: This is one of the most well-preserved dolmens in Sardinia, featuring a capstone weighing several tons. It is surrounded by ancient oak trees, adding a mystical atmosphere to the site. Known locally as the “Dolmen Ladas,” it’s thought to have been used for collective burials.
  1. Dolmen di Sa Coveccada
  • Location: Near Mores, central Sardinia
  • Description: Known as one of the largest and best-preserved dolmens on the island, Sa Coveccada has a significant horizontal capstone and large support stones. Its layout suggests it may have been used for ceremonial purposes in addition to burials, and the nearby area likely held cultural importance for prehistoric communities.
  1. Dolmen di Monte d’Accoddi
  • Location: Near Sassari
  • Description: Though technically not a dolmen, Monte d’Accoddi is often included in studies of megalithic structures in Sardinia. This pyramid-like ziggurat, with a sloping ramp, was a unique temple that might have incorporated dolmen-style burials and has parallels to Mesopotamian structures, indicating possible cultural exchanges or influences.
  1. Dolmen di Motorra
  • Location: Near Dorgali, eastern Sardinia
  • Description: This dolmen is situated in a scenic mountainous area. Its capstone is remarkable for its size and position, and its isolated location suggests it may have been a site of pilgrimage or specific ritual importance for the local community.

These dolmens are generally accessible to the public and can often be combined with visits to other nearby archaeological sites, such as nuraghi or giant’s tombs, for a fuller understanding of Sardinia’s ancient history.