Explore Olbia, the Gem of Sardinia:
Olbia, known as Terranoa in Sardinian, is a city located in the province of Sassari, in Sardinia. It ranks as the fourth most populous municipality on the island after Cagliari, Sassari, and Quartu Sant’Elena.
- Former capital of the Giudicato di Gallura;
- First episcopal center of Gallura until 1839.
The earliest traces of human settlements date back to the Middle Neolithic period with pottery fragments found in Porto Rotondo and a female figure representing the mother goddess at Santa Mariedda.
Olbia’s strategic location has attracted numerous Mediterranean civilizations over the centuries such as Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans, leaving indelible marks on its history and territory.
The most significant monuments from the Nuragic period include nuraghe Riu Mulinu in Cabu Abbas, nuraghe Putzolu (lu Naracu), the nuragic village of Belveghile towards Arzachena, Nuraghe Mannazzu or Mannacciu, Nuraghe Siana or Zucchitta near Enas railway station, and nuraghe Sa prescione ‘e Siana overlooking Olbia’s plain. Not to be overlooked is the sacred well of Sa Testa dating back to 1200-950 BC.
