Anghelu Ruju Sardinia Review

The pre-nuraghic necropolis of Anghelu Ruju is located almost under the flight path of Alghero airport ( Fertilia ) alongside the Porte Torres road and as such can make a convenient end of holiday excursion.

This prehistoric site was discovered by accident in 1903 following the purchase of the land by a local winery. Excavation work was carried out in 1904-1908, 1936 and 1967 to unearth the 37 underground burial chambers which are the best examples of the ubiquitous "domus de janas" or "houses of fairies" in Sardinia.

The necropolis dates back to the Late Neolithic - Early Copper Age (3300-2700 BC) although it saw re-use up until 1500 BC. These dates are confirmed by the amount of archeological material yielded from the Ozieri culture which existed in the area during this period.

There are two types of tomb on the site determined by the style of the entrance. The "pozzetto", shaped like a narrow well and the later "open passage". Both consist of several connected chambers which may include pillars, fascias, steps and alcoves and are decorated with bulls' heads and geometric figures that can still be glimpsed today.

Several of the tombs showed signs of mass burial but most contained individuals lying on their backs. There were also occasional skeletons from which the flesh had been removed prior to burial and even some cases of semi-cremation.

Replicas of some of the findings can be seen at the Museo e Tenuta Vitivinicola which is located 1km further north along the Porte Torres road. This museum is owned by the winery and as such winemaking is the main theme.

Anghelu Ruju is open year round. Tickets cost around two euros with an additional charge for the use of a handheld guide. It is also possible to purchase a ticket that also allows visitors access to Nuraghe di Palmavera.