Nuorese Cultural District
Irgoli
Description
Irgoli is located in the valley of Cedrino and surrounded by gentle hills, vineyard and olive groves. The old town is a fascinating maze of cobblestone streets, traditional stone houses and narrow lanes.
The church of San Nicola, built in 1634, preserves a thorn that, while of dubious authenticity, is claimed to have come from Christ’s Crown of Thorns.
The town is situated on Monte Albo, a distinctive mountain with picturesque white ravines, sheer walls, gullies and caves that were used for refuge in prehistoric times.
Monte Albo is a protected area with a variety of animal species, including mouflons and golden eagles.
Walking along the trails, you will also find old shepherd’s huts called pinnettos and built of stone and wood. The Talachè old-growth holm oak forest is a must see, and the nearby Janna 'e Pruna complex dates to the late Bronze Age/early Iron Age (1200 to 900 BCE).
The same area is also home to nuraghs and the su Notante spring, which dates back to the late Bronze Age (1200 to 1000 BCE).
To immerse yourself in the material culture unearthed in the settlements, visit the Antiquarium Comunale, a museum filled with objects ranging from vases and ingots to casting moulds, whorls, loom weights and necklaces.
The beaches near Irgoli are some of the most beautiful in Sardinia, including Cala Liberotto and Cala Ginepro: enchanting spots for relaxing and enjoy the crystalline sea.