Sella del Diavolo
Sardegna
Sella del Diavolo is a distinctive promontory located in the southern part of Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy, rising to 135 meters above sea level. It separates the popular Poetto beach from Calamosca beach and is renowned for its natural beauty and rich archaeological heritage. The site features ruins of a Roman temple dedicated to Astarte, ancient cisterns for rainwater collection, and remains of a watchtower and military fortifications. A well-marked naturalistic and archaeological trail allows visitors to explore the promontory, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Gulf of Angels, the Poetto coastline, and Capo Carbonara. The area is partly restricted due to military presence, with access primarily from the Calamosca side. The promontory's name, meaning "Devil's Saddle," stems from a local legend involving a celestial battle between Lucifer and the Archangel Michael, during which Lucifer lost his saddle that turned into this rocky formation. This blend of natural, historical, and mythical elements makes Sella del Diavolo a unique destination for hikers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
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Astuce: The best way to visit Sella del Diavolo is by starting from Calamosca, accessible by CTM buses 5, 5/11 (Sundays), and 11. Wear comfortable shoes for the moderately steep trail and bring water and sun protection. Visiting in spring or autumn offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Consider purchasing tickets for guided tours or environmental group excursions to learn about the archaeological sites. Note that the northern side is a military zone and off-limits to visitors.
Faits intéressants
- •The name 'Sella del Diavolo' ('Devil's Saddle') derives from a legend about Lucifer losing his saddle during a heavenly battle.
- •The promontory hosts ruins of a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Astarte, indicating ancient religious significance.
- •There are large ancient cisterns carved into the rock for collecting rainwater, showcasing advanced engineering.
- •The northern side of the promontory is a restricted military zone, limiting access from that direction.
- •The adjacent gulf is called the Gulf of Angels, contrasting the promontory's devilish name.
Histoire
The promontory has been historically significant since ancient times, with evidence of Punic and Roman presence, including a temple to Astarte and cisterns for rainwater storage.
The watchtower known as Poet's Tower, visible above the promontory, dates back to the Aragonese period.
Over centuries, the area witnessed military use and religious activity, notably the hermitage of Saint Elias, who was martyred there during the Diocletian persecutions.
The modern trail and conservation efforts have been developed by environmental organizations to protect and promote this culturally rich landscape.
Guide du lieu
Poet's Tower (Aragonese Tower)14th-15th century
A historic watchtower located above the promontory, part of a coastal defense system from the Aragonese period, offering views over Poetto beach and the Gulf of Angels.
Roman Temple of Astartecirca 1st century BC
Ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to the Phoenician-Punic goddess Astarte, reflecting the area's religious importance during Roman and Punic times.
Ancient CisternsPunic and Roman periods
Large rock-cut cisterns designed to collect and store rainwater, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient water management systems.
Hermitage of Saint EliasLate Roman period
Ruins of a small church dedicated to Saint Elias, who lived as a hermit on the promontory and was martyred during the Diocletian persecutions.
Naturalistic and Archaeological TrailModern development
A well-maintained path that allows visitors to explore the promontory's natural beauty and archaeological sites, equipped with safety railings and panoramic viewpoints.
