The Journey of Ancient Sardinians: Origins and Settlement Patterns

Prehistoric Migration: Early Inhabitants of Sardinia

The ancient inhabitants of Sardinia began their journey on the island through a combination of migration and seafaring. The earliest settlers likely migrated from the eastern coasts of Europe, specifically the Iberian Peninsula and southern France, during the Mesolithic period. This migration, which occurred around 10,000 to 7,000 years ago, marks the beginning of a complex and intriguing history.

Maritime Skills and Settlement

The inhabitants of Sardinia were not only skilled in agriculture and animal husbandry but also in navigation. They used simple boats to traverse the Mediterranean waters, which allowed them to settle on the island. By the Neolithic period, around 6,000 to 3,000 BCE, more permanent settlements began to form.

This period also saw the emergence of the Ozieri culture, known also as San Michele, which dates back to approximately 3,200 to 2,800 BCE. The name 'Sardinia' itself derives from the Latin toponym Sardinia, a name whose origins are debated. Some scholars link it to Sardò, a legendary woman mentioned in Plato's dialogue the Timeo. Others suggest it is derived from Sardus, son of Hercules, as recounted by the Roman historian Sallust.

Sardetic Cultures and Influences

Simultaneously, Sardinia experienced a series of cultural influences and population movements from various Mediterranean civilizations. These interactions had a significant impact on the island's societal structure and culture. The Phoenicians, Romans, and other civilizations contributed to the development of Sardinia, leaving behind important historical and archaeological sites.

Nuragic Civilization: A Complex Social Order

The Nuragic civilization, developing from the Bronze Age onward, presented a sophisticated society with distinct social classes. The majority of the population, known as the plebs, consisted of shepherds, farmers, craftsmen, and small traders. The warrior class and large landowners formed part of the noble class. Lastly, priests led religious and ritualistic activities, dealing with medicine, magic, and other spiritual practices.

Between the 9th and 8th centuries BCE, various Mediterranean populations began to frequent and trade with Sardinia, leading to the transformation and evolution of the Nuragic civilization. The Nuraghi, prehistoric stone towers, became obsolete, and new forms of leadership emerged, such as the optimistic kings. Around 750 BCE, Phoenicians began to consolidate important integrations in Sardinia both politically and militarily, as evidenced by the colonies of Nora, Tharros, Othoca, and Sulci.

The study of Sardinia's ancient past reveals a layered and rich history, influenced by migration patterns, maritime technology, and cultural exchanges. The initial settlers of Sardinia and their descendants created a complex and enduring civilization that continues to captivate historians and archaeologists to this day.

Historical Insights

One of the most fascinating artifacts is the stele of Nora, a sandstone block found in 1773 near the Church of Sant’Efisio in Pula. Currently housed in the National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari, this monument provides valuable insights into the Sardinian culture of pre-Roman times. On the first floor of this museum, visitors can explore the cultures that inhabited Sardinia, from the first human settlers to the sophisticated Nuragic civilization.