Visiting the Archaeological Museum
In sun-drenched Sardinia, the former province of Cagliari is known for its beaches, but also for a past that is as intense as it is fascinating. In the southeast, Villasimius is a former fishing village that perfectly illustrates these two sides of the island. History here spans millennia. While the destination attracts those seeking a beautiful coastline, it is also ideal for enthusiasts of ruins and architecture, featuring sites left behind by various powers, including Carthaginian and Nuragic civilizations. The Archaeological Museum offers a great walk through these vanished but foundational cultures.
Sardinia, from the Neolithic period
Four rooms make up the small Archaeological Museum, which is intimately linked to the sea. The Territory room begins with the Neolithic period and presents the successive Nuragic, Carthaginian, and Roman civilizations that populated Villasimius. It leads to the Sanctuaire de Cuccureddus (Sanctuary of Cuccureddus) room, where treasures found at the Phoenician and Roman archaeological site of the same name are displayed. Around 750 BCE, the sanctuary of the goddess Ashtart stood here, later replaced by a temple dedicated to Juno. Excavations have revealed mask fragments from the 2nd century, along with numerous everyday objects, coins, and tools. In the Sea room, the intense trade linked to the Mediterranean is revealed, and you can even see a small model of a Carthaginian ship. After understanding what happened on the water, you discover what it kept buried in its depths. The Wreck room exhibits remains from a shipwreck, including many perfectly preserved amphorae. The museum is not large, but it is comprehensive. Documentary screenings complement the exhibits, revealing Sardinia and its fascinating history from a truly interesting perspective.
Between 2 days spent tanning on the beach, it would be a shame not to take advantage of your trip to learn more about the history of Sardinia. This small museum will teach you a lot in a short amount of time. Educational and well done without being very big.