The archaeological complex of La Prisgiona, one of the most extraordinary examples of Nuragic architecture in Sardinia

Only 6 kilometres from the centre of Arzachena, a real jewel of Sardinian cultural heritage

In the heart of picturesque Gallura, just 6 km from the picturesque village of Arzachena and a little over 20 minutes' drive from Porto Cervo, stands the archaeological complex of La Prisgiona. This site represents a unique treasure that contains some of the oldest and most fascinating evidence of funerary architecture in Sardinia. To discover all the other archaeological sites to visit in Sardinia, click here!

Complesso nuragico di La Prisgiona (ph. Dario Garofalo)

The history of the La Prisgiona complex

La Prisgiona consists of an imposing nuraghe, surrounded by a large village of huts, and the famous tomb of the giants of Coddu Ecchju, one of the most significant examples of Nuragic funerary architecture and the oldest tomb in Gallura.

The nuraghe of La Prisgiona stands on a rise, dominating the territory below. This strategic site was the beating heart of the local community, a political, social and economic reference point. Its structure, built according to the ‘tholos’ model, is distinguished by its three interconnected towers and reaches a height of 7 metres. Originally, the nuraghe consisted of two floors, built using the ‘false dome’ technique: stones stacked one on top of the other, gradually getting smaller as one ascended.

Inside, the main hall was a crossroads of activity: food storage, preparation of food and drink, and, as the finds suggest, a place for rituals. Next to the nuraghe is a well about 7 metres deep, still functioning today, which ensured a constant supply of water for the village.

Scholars date the construction of the nuraghe to the 14th century B.C., with a phase of use that extended into the 8th century B.C., as shown by the biological and material findings in the area.

How to reach the archaeological site of La Prisgiona

To reach the nuragic complex of La Prisgiona by car from Porto Cervo, you must follow the provincial road in the direction of Arzachena for about 20 minutes. Once there, you can leave your car in a large free car park and proceed on foot to the ticket office.