Tharros
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Latest update: 19 January 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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The peninsula of Tharros is a narrow strip of land that forms part of the larger Sinis Peninsula on Sardinia's western coast in the Province of Oristano.
Tharros is most famous for its archaeological area although many visitors to the area are happy to just walk along the isthmus of land which provides some of the region's most spectacular scenery. |
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The Tharros archaeological site is an ancient Phoenician and Roman city located on the western coast of Sardinia, Italy. It is situated on the promontory of Capo San Marco, overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Oristano. Tharros offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the remains of an ancient city that played a significant role in the history of Sardinia.
Tharros was founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC and later became a Carthaginian stronghold. It then fell under Roman control during the 2nd century BC. The archaeological site covers a large area and includes the remains of Phoenician, Punic, and Roman structures.
Tharros was founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC and later became a Carthaginian stronghold. It then fell under Roman control during the 2nd century BC. The archaeological site covers a large area and includes the remains of Phoenician, Punic, and Roman structures.
History
Tharros was strategically located on the western coast of Sardinia, making it an essential port and trading center for the Phoenicians and later the Carthaginians. The city played a crucial role in maritime trade and the exchange of goods between the eastern and western Mediterranean.
In the 2nd century BC, the Romans conquered Tharros during the Punic Wars, and the city became part of the Roman Empire. It continued to be inhabited during the Roman period, experiencing periods of prosperity and decline.
Over time, the city faced challenges from invasions and natural disasters, leading to its eventual abandonment during the Byzantine period.
In the 2nd century BC, the Romans conquered Tharros during the Punic Wars, and the city became part of the Roman Empire. It continued to be inhabited during the Roman period, experiencing periods of prosperity and decline.
Over time, the city faced challenges from invasions and natural disasters, leading to its eventual abandonment during the Byzantine period.
Key features
- Punic-Roman Quarter: This area contains well-preserved Roman houses with mosaic floors, showing the influence of Roman architecture and culture on the city.
- Temple of the Punic Tophet: The Temple of the Punic Tophet is a Carthaginian sanctuary where offerings and sacrifices were made to the gods. It is one of the most significant Punic structures in the site.
- Roman Amphitheater: The site also features the remains of a Roman amphitheater, where spectators would have enjoyed various forms of entertainment.
- Christian Basilica: The site includes the remains of a Byzantine Christian basilica, dating to the 5th century AD, which showcases the religious transformations that occurred in Tharros over the centuries.
Visitor information
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available to provide historical context and insights into the history and archaeology of Tharros.
- Visitor Center: The site has a visitor center with exhibits and informative materials about the history and culture of Tharros and the various civilizations that inhabited the area.
- Accessibility: The site is generally accessible, but some areas may have uneven terrain.
- Nearby Attractions: Tharros is located close to other points of interest in Sardinia, such as the archaeological site of Nora and the coastal town of Oristano.
Area Archeologica di Tharros
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Comune: Cabras
Province: Oristano Region: Sardinia Fly to: Cagliari Elmas Airport - 1 hour 27 minutes (115 km) Close by: Sa Mesa Longa, Putzu Idu, Is Arutas, Oristano Recommended accommodation: Hotel Sa Pedrera (6 km) |
