Attractions and Places To See around Gerxei/Gergei - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Gerxei/Gergei, a town in Sardinia's Trexenta region, offers a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. The area is characterized by a valley bordered by the Giara di Gergei, Monte Trempu, fertile hills, and the Mannu river. Evidence of human occupation dates back to the Neolithic Age, with significant Nuragic settlements and cultural traditions. Gerxei/Gergei is also recognized for its olive oil production.
Best attractions and places to see around Gerxei/Gergei
- The most popular attractions is Pinnettas Shepherd Huts, a hut that represents the last huts of shepherds from the 1960s, mirroring Nuragic period construction. It offers a unique experience, sometimes with wild horses nearby, and includes a picnic area.
- Another must-see spot is Pauli Maiori Wetland, a lake. Visitors can find wild horses here and enjoy incredible views of the landscape.
- Visitors also love Su Nuraxi Archaeological Site, a historical site. This is the largest Nuragic Archaeological Area in Sardinia and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Gerxei/Gergei is known for its ancient historical sites, natural wetlands, and archaeological monuments. The region provides a variety of attractions to explore, from ancient settlements to natural parks.
- The attractions around Gerxei/Gergei are appreciated by the komoot community, with 35 photos and 101 upvotes across various highlights.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Pinnettas Shepherd Huts
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Su Nuraxi Archaeological Site
Highlight • Historical Site
PS. In addition to the area with the same ticket (15 €) you can visit the Casa Zappata museum
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Bruncu Madugui village and nuraghe
Highlight • Historical Site
The main building is of considerable architectural importance, as it belongs to the type of protonuraghi or "corridor" nuraghi.
It is a mighty construction in the Cyclopean work of irregular blocks of basalt.
source Sardinia Culture
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Pauli Maiori Wetland
Highlight • Lake
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Giara Plateau Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
Often you can only hear the cute wild horses neighing from afar. With a bit of luck you can also spot them and watch them nibble on the green of the trees.
The park can be visited on your own or you can book a guided tour.
More information is available here: parcodellagiara.it/?lang=en
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Tips from the Community
In summer the lake is dry, but there is a good chance of seeing wild horses at the nearby springs.
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The German-language television series “Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity” – which I can recommend without reservation – devotes a quarter-hour report to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the “NURAGHI” in Sardinia and the traditional shepherds’ song known there as “Canto a Tenore”. The accompanying text to the programme states: “Over seven thousand round towers made of stone blocks weighing several tons are scattered all over Sardinia. Often only the stumps of these megalithic buildings, called nuraghi, remain. The first were built around 1400 BC. Small stones were placed between the mighty blocks, a construction method that made the stone towers safe from collapse." This article (episode 413 of the series) can be accessed in the ARD media library at the following link => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/sardinien/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS8xNTg4MzM5MA
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Here you can see wild horses and lots of insects. We saw the horses at the lake, it was really magical 🤩
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There is a documentary about the model for this modern, but reminiscent of ancient models, documentation - which in my opinion is fully recommended: The German-language television series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" is dedicated to the UNESCO world cultural heritage of the "NURAGHI" in Sardinia and a fifteen-minute contribution to the traditional shepherd's song known there as “Canto a Tenore”. The text accompanying the program says “Over seven thousand round towers made of stone pieces weighing tons are scattered all over Sardinia. Often only the stumps of these megalithic buildings, called nuraghi, remain. The first were around 1400 BC. Built. Small stones were placed between the mighty blocks, a construction method that made the stone towers collapse-proof.” This article (episode 413 of the series) is available in the ARD media library under the following link: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/sardinien/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS8xNTg4MzM5MA
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You can find detailed information about this archaeological highlight at: https://virtualarchaeology.sardegnacultura.it/index.php/de/archaeologe-fundplatz/periodo-nuragico/villaggio-nuragico-di-su-nuraxi Quite impressive. You should invest the 15 EUR.
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You can find detailed information about this archaeological highlight at: https://virtualarchaeology.sardegnacultura.it/index.php/de/archaeologer-fundplatz/periodo-nuragico/villaggio-nuragico-di-su-nuraxi Brochure with 3D reconstruction: https://virtualarchaeology.sardegnacultura.it/images/guide/Campidano/Medio-Campidano_Tedesco.pdf Quite impressive. You should invest the 15 EUR.
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The complex overlooks the edge of the Giara, a basaltic plateau on the border between the regions of Marmilla, Sarcidano and Arborea. The main building is of considerable architectural importance, as it belongs to the type of protonuraghi or "corridor" nuraghi. It is a mighty construction in the Cyclopean work of irregular blocks of basalt. source Sardinia Culture
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Near the Giara plateau, in the central-southern part of Sardinia, rises the symbol par excellence of the Nuragic culture, the only Sardinian cultural site included in the UNESCO World Physical Heritage List. There is a very special atmosphere in Barumini: since prehistory, the current town has been a center of power and an important reference point for a rich and fertile land, the Marmilla. As a testament to this stands Su Nuraxi, the most imposing (and best preserved of thirty nuragic sites in the Barumini area and the most important legacy left to us by the Torre culture. The archaeological area includes a nuragic complex and a vast village of huts, a unique place declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997. The impressive site was unearthed during the mid-20th century excavations led by Giovanni Lilliu.The cultural center is named after the "father" of Sardinian archaeology, and is just a few steps from the Nuraghe is located. Su Nuraxi is built of basalt, a volcanic rock from the nearby Giara Natural Park. It shows an over the course of two thousand years, from the 16th century BC. to 7th century AD, material was layered on top of each other. Source: https://www.sardegnaturismo.it/en/discover/su-nuraxi The facility can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Guided tours are offered in Italian and English. More information can be found here: http://www.fondazionebarumini.it/it/area-archelogica-su-nuraxi/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see wild horses near Gerxei/Gergei?
You can often spot wild horses at the Pauli Maiori Wetland, where they offer incredible views of the landscape. Another excellent location is the Giara Plateau Park (Giara di Gesturi), which is a naturalistic park specifically set up to protect the rare wild horses, known as 'Cavallini della Giara'.
What historical and archaeological sites can I visit in the Gerxei/Gergei area?
The region is rich in history. A must-see is the Su Nuraxi Archaeological Site in Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Nuragic archaeological area in Sardinia. You can also explore the Bruncu Madugui village and nuraghe, which overlooks the Giara plateau. Nearby, the Santa Vittoria Serri Sanctuary offers further insights into Nuragic civilization, and the Nuraghe Arrubiu of Orroli is another imposing Nuragic monument.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Gerxei/Gergei?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Pauli Maiori Wetland and the Giara Plateau Park are great for spotting wild horses and enjoying nature. The Pinnettas Shepherd Huts offer a unique glimpse into traditional life and have a picnic area, making it a pleasant stop for families.
What cultural landmarks are there within Gergei town itself?
Within Gergei, you can visit the 16th-century late-Gothic Chiesa di San Vito Martire, featuring a rose window and important artworks. The Santa Greca Sanctuary, originally built in 1328, and the Santuario Diocesano Chiesa SS. Vergine Assunta, designed by Gaetano Cima, are also significant historical churches with rich interiors.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Gerxei/Gergei is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. For hiking, explore trails like the 'Pauli Piccia Wild Horses – Pinnettas Shepherd Huts loop' or the 'Ancient Cork Oak – Pauli Piccia Wild Horses loop'. Cycling options include the 'Giara ponies – Giara di Gesturi Plateau loop'. Mountain biking trails like the 'Funtana Is Arinus and Nuraghe Adoni Loop' are also available. You can find more details on these activities on the respective guide pages for hiking, cycling, and MTB trails.
Are there any museums or places to learn more about the region's history?
Yes, in addition to the archaeological sites, you can visit the "Zapata House" Museum (Casa Zapata) in Barumini, which is built on top of a Nuragic structure. Further afield in Laconi, the Museum of Prehistoric Statues in Sardinia, housed in Palazzo Aymerich, displays menhir statues and related artifacts found in the area.
What is the significance of the Pinnettas Shepherd Huts?
The Pinnettas Shepherd Huts are not ancient Nuragic settlements, but rather the last huts of shepherds from the 1960s. They are significant because their construction method mirrors that of the Nuragic period, offering a tangible link to ancient building traditions. Visiting them provides a unique experience, sometimes with wild horses nearby, and there's a pleasant picnic area.
What local traditions or events are celebrated in Gergei?
Gergei is known for its vibrant traditions and events. These include the Festa di San Biagio (Santu Brai) on February 3rd, the Festa di Santa Greca on May 1st with a sheep shearing competition, and the patronal Festa di San Vito on June 15th. The town also hosts a stage of the Sa die de Is Saboris Antigus food and wine event in November, promoting local gastronomy and crafts.
What is the best time of year to visit Gerxei/Gergei for outdoor activities?
Spring and autumn are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Gerxei/Gergei. The weather is milder, making it comfortable for hiking, cycling, and exploring archaeological sites. In spring, the landscape is lush, and you might see the Pauli Maiori River full of water, increasing chances of spotting wild horses. Summers can be hot, but early mornings or late afternoons are still suitable for activities.
What is the Giara di Gesturi known for?
The Giara di Gesturi, also known as Sa Jara Manna, is a significant naturalistic park famous for its cork oaks and the rare wild horses, the 'Cavallini della Giara'. It's a basaltic plateau where you can explore independently or with a guided tour. The Giara Plateau Park is dedicated to protecting this unique ecosystem.
Are there other significant Nuragic sites nearby besides Su Nuraxi?
Absolutely. While Su Nuraxi is the most famous, the area boasts several other important Nuragic sites. These include the Bruncu Madugui village and nuraghe complex overlooking the Giara, the Santa Vittoria Serri Sanctuary on the Giara di Serri, and the impressive Nuraghe Arrubiu of Orroli, known for its five towers and red lichens, located about 30 minutes from Gergei.
What makes Gergei special in terms of local products?
Gergei is known as the 'town with the good olive oil' and is a member of the national City of Oil association. It's celebrated for its autochthonous Mallocria olive variety, making it a great place to experience local gastronomic traditions, especially during events like Sa die de Is Saboris Antigus.
Most popular attractions around Gerxei/Gergei
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