Giants’ Tombs of Sardinia

Monumental collective burial structures created by Sardinia’s Nuragic communities.

The “Giants’ Tombs” are monumental collective burial structures found across Sardinia. Their modern name does not indicate that giants were buried there; the chambers contained the remains of members of Bronze Age communities.

Form and Function

A typical monument has a long stone burial chamber and a curved forecourt, or exedra. In several northern examples a tall central stele marks the entrance. Construction varies by period and region, with both upright slabs and courses of shaped stone.

Archaeologists interpret them as communal funerary and ceremonial places. Claims about a mother-goddess cult, cosmic orientation or a precisely known afterlife belief remain interpretations and should not be presented as established fact.

Map

Giants’ Tombs of Sardinia

Coddu Vecchiu

Coddu Vecchiu stands near Arzachena, about 700 metres from the Nuragic settlement of La Prisgiona. Built in local granite and developed in phases, it incorporates an earlier corridor tomb and is distinguished by its high carved stele.

Li Lolghi

Li Lolghi, also near Arzachena, is another major example. Its long chamber and broad granite exedra make it one of Sardinia’s most imposing and best-preserved Giants’ Tombs.

Other Sites

S’Ena ’e Thomes near Dorgali and Imbertighe near Borore are among many examples elsewhere on the island. They are not one attraction in a single archaeological park: access, road conditions, staffing and tickets differ by site.

Visiting Responsibly

Check official regional or municipal information for the chosen monument. Some sites are managed and ticketed, while others stand in rural landscapes reached by tracks or paths.

Do not climb on stones, enter closed chambers or remove any material. Respect fences, livestock and private land, and carry water and sun protection.

FAQs

Did giants build or use these tombs?

No. The name refers to the monuments’ impressive size; they were collective burials created by ancient Sardinian communities.

When were they constructed?

Many developed during the Bronze Age, although individual monuments may incorporate earlier structures or show later phases.

What is an exedra?

It is the curved ceremonial forecourt in front of the burial chamber.

Can visitors enter the chambers?

Access depends on the site and conservation rules. Never enter or climb where it is prohibited.

Are Coddu Vecchiu and Li Lolghi close together?

Both are in the Arzachena area, but each has its own access and visiting arrangements.

Were valuable objects discovered?

Archaeological material can help date construction and understand funerary practices, but finds and interpretations vary by monument.

What is the best season?

Spring and autumn are often comfortable; summer sites may be hot and exposed with little shade.

Discover More Luxury Villas in Sardinia

Planning your stay near this attraction? Explore our full collection of handpicked villas in Sardinia, with private pools, sea views, and premium locations.

View All Luxury Villas in Sardinia