Nuraghe di Palmavera

The Basics

The Nuraghe di Palmavera complex is made up of a limestone tower, an elliptical building, and a secondary sandstone tower, all surrounded by the ruins of smaller towers, fortified walls, and circular dwellings. Though the architecture is a testament to the skill of the Nuragic civilization, the site can be difficult to interpret—visit with a guide to best understand these ruins shrouded in mystery and legend.

Some Nuraghe di Palmavera tours include a stop at Alghero and a wine tasting in the nearby countryside.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Take a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water, as the site doesn’t have much shade.

• Because the ruins are scattered across uneven ground with no walkways, the site isn’t accessible to wheelchairs.

• There’s a small café and souvenir shop in the archaeological park.

• The site has a few picnic tables.

How to Get There

On the promontory of the same name, the Palmavera complex is located in the extreme northwestern part of Sardinia, in the Park of Porto Conte outside Alghero. As the site is difficult to reach by public transit, consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation.

When to Get There

Temperatures in Sardinia soar in the summer months—for milder weather, visit in spring or fall. The site closes in the afternoon from November through March.

Highlights of the Nuraghe di Palmavera

Besides the main towers encircled by the remains of what were once more than 100 stone huts, check out the circular Capanna delle Riunioni (Meeting Hut). A low stone bench—thought to be for a council of elders—lines one wall. At the center sits a pedestal topped by a miniature nuraghe, perhaps the focal point of a religion or cult.