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Anghelu Ruju Necropolis

4.4
·1k reviews·Alghero, Italy

Explore Sardinia's largest pre-Nuragic necropolis, with ancient tombs carved into rock dating back to 3200 BC.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Avoid midday sun

CrowdLow
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Incisioni Tomba XXVIII

Anghelu Ruju Necropolis

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Avoid midday sun

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Sardinia's largest pre-Nuragic necropolis, with ancient tombs carved into rock dating back to 3200 BC.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"Fascinating to see how humankind was already capable of building 4000 years ago!"

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ Sun Protection Essential

Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must! Most of the site is exposed to the sun.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Freely

Wander through the site and enter tombs if you fit. Be respectful of the ancient structures.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Tombs

Ancient Tombs

Throughout the site

Step into excavated tombs dating back to 3200 BC, marveling at the ancient architecture and carvings.

Pre-Nuragic History

Pre-Nuragic History

Information panels

Learn about the fascinating civilizations and cultures that built and used these burial sites.

Impressive Chambers

Impressive Chambers

Various tombs

Discover well-preserved chambers, some with unique decorations like bull horns.

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Planning Your Visit

Sun Protection is Key

This vast necropolis is largely exposed to the sun. Bring hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as there are limited shaded areas for your visit. Stay hydrated!

Explore Freely, But Respectfully

Visitors can explore most of the site and even enter some tombs. Be mindful of the ancient structures and follow any posted guidelines to preserve this historical treasure.

Best Times

When
Morning or late afternoon
Why
Avoid midday sun
Crowd
Low
When
Spring or Autumn
Why
Pleasant temperatures
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Alghero has stunning sunsets! 🌅 #alghero #algherosardegna #sardegna #sardinia #algherosardinia #neptunesgrotto #neptunescave #spiaggialapelosa #visitalghero #visitsardinia
@lifeinthebackpack
14.2K likes • 519.2K views

☀️ Sun Protection Essential

Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must! Most of the site is exposed to the sun. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Freely

Wander through the site and enter tombs if you fit. Be respectful of the ancient structures. Reddit

After a good night’s rest in Stintino, we headed to The necropolis of Anghelu Ruju. It is a pre-Nuragic archaeological site located north of the city of Alghero, Province of Sassari, it is the largest necropolis of pre-Nuragic Sardinia dating back to 3200 BC. It’s amazing how they allow you full access of the entire site apart from where the archaeologists are still working. From the Necropolis w...
jeffcollins84
18 likes • 279 views
#indianajonesparteII #anghelurujunecropolis #alghero
mi_co_gi
10 likes • 192 views

📚 Audio Guide Info

Inquire about audio guides; they enhance the historical context. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ Sun Protection Essential

Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must! Most of the site is exposed to the sun. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Freely

Wander through the site and enter tombs if you fit. Be respectful of the ancient structures. Reddit

📚 Audio Guide Info

Inquire about audio guides; they enhance the historical context. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Reddit

🏛️ Combine with Nuraghe

Consider a combined ticket with nearby Nuraghe sites for a fuller historical experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Anghelu Ruju Necropolis for its well-preserved ancient tombs and the freedom to explore the site. Many appreciate the historical information provided and the unique opportunity to step inside millennia-old burial chambers. Some wish for clearer rules of conduct and better availability of audio guides.

"Really well preserved Mesolithic/ neolithic burial site. Very impressive chambers and really nice wide clear field. Lots of interesting information the different civilisations/ cultures that used and built these sites. In lots of different languages too! Definitely a must see if you like history and architecture"

derk raggers

"Nice place, impressive tumbs, you can walk around the site freely and even try to enter in some tumbs if you fit. I missed the audio guide, that was not offered to me (there was audio guide signs all o we the place) but I saw another family using one. Would be nice to have a sign saying what I can and a can’t do in the place, looks like there’s no rules."

Andre Burati

"Large Necropolis filled with tombs. According to the lady at the site, many more under the ground, but no money to excavate... Shame. Still worth the visit. You can combine the entrance ticket with the Nuraghe some km futher from Alghero."

Peter Mulder

What People Like

Well-preserved tombs
Freedom to explore
Historical insights

What People Dislike

Lack of clear rules
Audio guide availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Anghelu Ruju Necropolis is located north of Alghero. Driving is the most convenient option, with parking available on-site. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus schedules if you're not driving. TikTok

The site is a large, open field with tombs. While you can walk around freely, some paths might be uneven. It's generally accessible for most visitors, but consider mobility if needed. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Reddit

Yes, you can visit independently and explore the site at your own pace. Guided tours may also be available, offering deeper insights into the history. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at the site, making it convenient for those arriving by car. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees are generally reasonable. You can often purchase tickets on-site. Consider combined tickets with other archaeological sites in the area for potential savings. Reddit

Booking in advance is usually not necessary, especially outside of peak season. However, for specific guided tours or during busy periods, it might be advisable. Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. It's worth inquiring at the ticket office or checking their website for any applicable offers. Reddit

The standard entrance ticket typically grants access to explore the necropolis grounds and enter the open tombs. Audio guides might be an additional option or included, so check upon arrival. Reddit

You can enter many of the tombs, provided you fit and it's safe to do so. Some areas might be restricted for preservation purposes. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll see a large collection of well-preserved, excavated tombs from the pre-Nuragic period, some with unique carvings and architectural features. Information panels provide historical context. Reddit+1

Absolutely! It's a fascinating site for anyone interested in ancient history, archaeology, and early human civilizations. The well-preserved tombs offer a glimpse into the past. Reddit

Guided tours may be offered, providing in-depth information about the site's history and significance. Inquire at the entrance or check their schedule. Reddit

Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring uneven terrain. Given the open nature of the site, light clothing, a hat, and sunglasses are highly recommended. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of any specific restrictions within certain tomb areas. Capture the impressive ancient structures! Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are typically no dining facilities directly within the necropolis itself. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and water or plan to eat before or after your visit in Alghero. Reddit

The nearest dining options will be in the city of Alghero or in nearby villages. Alghero offers a wide variety of restaurants serving local Sardinian cuisine. TikTok

While there might not be designated picnic areas, you can likely find spots to sit and enjoy a packed lunch. Be sure to clean up after yourself and leave no trace. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entrances to the tombs, the unique carvings, and the expansive views of the necropolis field offer great photographic opportunities. Capture the scale and ancient details. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites to protect the heritage and for safety reasons. Check local regulations and site-specific rules before flying. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the tombs and the landscape. A standard zoom lens will be versatile for details. Consider a polarizing filter for sunny days. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is permitted. However, avoid using flash inside tombs if it could damage ancient pigments, and be respectful of other visitors. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Anghelu Ruju Necropolis can be an engaging experience for families, offering a chance for kids to explore ancient 'fairy houses' and imagine life in prehistoric times. The open space allows for some freedom to roam, but supervision is essential due to the uneven terrain and the delicate nature of the tombs. Reddit

Encourage children to look for interesting shapes in the rock and discuss what life might have been like thousands of years ago. Bringing snacks and plenty of water is recommended, as there are no facilities on-site. The site's historical significance makes it a great educational outing, sparking curiosity about archaeology and ancient cultures. Reddit

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For history buffs, Anghelu Ruju Necropolis is a must-visit. This extensive site offers a deep dive into Sardinia's pre-Nuragic civilization, showcasing impressive rock-cut tombs and providing insights into ancient burial practices and beliefs. The well-preserved nature of the tombs and the available information panels make for a rich learning experience. Reddit

Consider combining your visit with nearby Nuragic sites to gain a broader understanding of Sardinia's ancient history. The ability to explore the tombs freely and observe the architectural details firsthand is a significant draw for those passionate about archaeology. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Anghelu Ruju

The Anghelu Ruju Necropolis is one of the most significant pre-Nuragic archaeological sites in Sardinia, dating back to approximately 3200 BC. It represents a crucial period in the island's history, showcasing the advanced societal structures and beliefs of its early inhabitants. The necropolis is comprised of numerous domus de janas (fairy houses), which are tombs carved directly into the rock. These tombs were used by various cultures over millennia, reflecting a continuous human presence and evolving burial practices. TikTok

The sheer scale of the necropolis, with its many excavated tombs, highlights the importance of funerary rituals and the afterlife in these ancient societies. The intricate carvings found in some tombs, such as representations of bull horns, suggest a connection to pastoralism and possibly religious symbolism. The site's preservation allows visitors to step back in time and imagine the lives of the people who created and utilized these remarkable underground chambers. Reddit+1

Archaeological research continues to uncover more about Anghelu Ruju, with many more tombs believed to be buried underground, awaiting excavation. The ongoing study of this site provides invaluable insights into the Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods of Sardinia, contributing to our understanding of early European civilizations. Reddit

Exploring the Tombs

Visiting Anghelu Ruju Necropolis offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient tombs firsthand. Many of the domus de janas are accessible, allowing you to step inside the chambers carved by hand thousands of years ago. The experience is often described as awe-inspiring, giving a tangible connection to the past. Reddit

As you navigate the site, you'll notice variations in the tomb structures. Some are simple, single chambers, while others are more complex, featuring multiple rooms connected by passages. Look closely for architectural details and any surviving carvings, such as the distinctive bull horns that are a recurring motif. Remember to tread carefully and respect the ancient stonework. Reddit+1

While you can freely explore many of the tombs, it's important to be mindful of your surroundings. Some entrances might be narrow, and the interiors can be dark. Bringing a flashlight can be helpful for examining details, though the natural light filtering in often suffices. The feeling of discovery as you enter each tomb is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

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