Ancient Nuraghi discovered beneath the waters of the Cabras Lagoon in Sardinia

Jan 16, 2025 435

BY: We the Italians Editorial Staff

Underwater archaeology in Sardinia has uncovered a fascinating discovery: the remains of ancient nuraghi submerged in the waters of the Cabras Lagoon. These megalithic structures, known as nuraghi, are characteristic of Sardinia's prehistoric civilization, which thrived between the Bronze and Iron Ages, roughly between 1500 and 500 BC.

The discovery, which took place off the coast near the town of Cabras, offers new insights into the mysterious nuragic culture that left behind these iconic stone towers. The nuraghi are believed to have served various purposes, including fortresses, places of worship, or communal gathering spaces.

The new findings suggest that several nuraghi were deliberately constructed in the shallow waters of the lagoon, possibly for symbolic or practical reasons. Archaeologists believe the positioning of these structures could have had strategic importance, providing both protection and access to maritime resources.

Professor Ranieri, one of the leading figures in the excavation, explained that this discovery marks a significant step in understanding the relationship between the nuragic civilization and its environment. "This area was a thriving center of activity thousands of years ago, and we are only beginning to uncover the full extent of the nuraghi network," Ranieri stated. The submerged ruins were discovered through the use of advanced underwater technologies, including sonar mapping and remote-operated vehicles, which allowed researchers to scan the lagoon's depths without disturbing the site.

The lagoons of Sardinia have long been a subject of intrigue, as the ancient nuragic people were known for their advanced engineering and architectural skills. However, much about their culture remains unknown, as many nuraghi are either hidden beneath the earth or submerged in water. The discovery of submerged nuraghi opens up new avenues for further investigation into the region's prehistoric past.

In addition to the architectural structures, a variety of artifacts have been found near the site, including pottery shards, tools, and fragments of jewelry, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the nuragic people. These artifacts will be carefully studied in the coming months, helping to provide a more detailed picture of the society that built these impressive structures.

This discovery is expected to attract both historians and tourists to Sardinia, highlighting the island's rich cultural heritage. As excavation efforts continue, the underwater nuraghi of the Cabras Lagoon may yield even more surprises, shedding light on a mysterious and ancient civilization.

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