Italy Then and Now: Sardinia

Discover the secrets of Sardinia with Gianni Arcaini's captivating exploration in this edition of his series "Italy Then and Now: Sardinia." Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily.Sardinia, with its rich and distinctive history, stands out within Italy. It is renowned for its ancient Nuragic civilization, characterized by unique megalithic structures like Nuraghi, which date back to the 18th century BC.Prior to Roman annexation, Sardinia was influenced by Phoenician and Carthaginian settlers and became a vibrant hub of commerce and culture.During its time as a Roman province, Sardinia played a pivotal role in supplying resources to the mighty Rome, leaving behind a significant archaeological legacy.Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Sardinia experienced a period of autonomy, leading to the formation of independent kingdoms known as Giudicati, which persisted from the 9th to the 15th century.Under Aragonese and Spanish rule, Sardinia's culture, architecture, and language were indelibly shaped by Spain. However, in a twist of fate, the island was ceded to the House of Savoy in the 18th century and became a catalyst for Italian unification in the 19th century. Post-World War II, Sardinia's distinct cultural identity and economic hardships led to its unique status as an autonomous region within Italy, granting it significant self-governing powers. This series of events underscores Sardinia’s exceptional place in Italian history. Read more