Pranu Muttedu: Sardinia’s Mysterious Stonehenge

Region: Sardinia

Province / Nearest City: Province of South Sardinia / nearest town Goni (2 km away)

Attraction Name: Pranu Muttedu Archaeological Park

Address: Località Pranu Muttedu, 09040 Goni, SU

Distance from Major City: ~55 km from Cagliari (about 1 hour by car)

How to Get There:

• By car: From Cagliari, follow SS387 toward Dolianova, then SP13 to Goni. Signs point to the archaeological park.

• By public transport: No direct public transport; the nearest hub is Dolianova or Mandas, from which a taxi is required.

What Makes It Unique in the World: Known as the “Sardinian Stonehenge,” Pranu Muttedu is one of Europe’s largest prehistoric necropolises. Over 60 sandstone menhirs—some more than 4 meters tall—stand in alignments, circles, and pairs, surrounded by cork oaks and wild countryside. The site also features domus de janas (rock-cut tombs) and dolmens, creating an evocative open-air sanctuary of Neolithic spirituality.

Local Story / Fun Fact: Archaeologists believe Pranu Muttedu was used for rituals linked to death and fertility, dating back to the 4th–3rd millennium BC. Local legends whisper that the stones are ancient guardians watching over the land, frozen mid-ritual for eternity.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the surrounding woods bloom with colors. Summer afternoons can be very hot, but the site is quiet and atmospheric.

Nearby Food & Stay: Goni offers simple trattorias with dishes like culurgiones (stuffed pasta) and roasted meats. Agriturismi in the Gerrei area provide authentic meals and rustic stays; for more comfort, Cagliari has hotels and services within an hour’s drive.