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Olbia – on the trail of ancient shrines |
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Throughout its history, the strategically important island of Sardinia has been the target of a variety of settlers, looters and invading armies: the Carthaginians were followed by the Romans, then the Arabs and finally the Catalans.
The Nuragic civilisation of the period from 1600 to about the 2nd century BC is an extremely significant part of the culture of Sardinia. The name comes from the nuraghi – the megalithic edifices found all over the island once used for defence, accommodation and stores for provisions, or as sites of religious significance.
Now, centuries later, in our enlightened modern era, there is also a fascination about Sardinia's mysterious burial caves – the domus de janas, or fairies' houses, which are assumed to have been the final resting places of wise and respected villagers. The island is also littered with menhirs, or standing stones, inscribed with symbols and the images of gods and warriors, and which were once used for worshipping pagan gods.
In short, this is an island rich in archaeological treasures and traditions which are closely interwoven with pagan history and early Christianity.
Helvetic Airways flights from Berne to Olbia will start from 31 August 2013. Book your flight today and take a trip into the mysteries of the past. Go to www.helvetic.com or www.belpmoos-reisen.ch.
Happy Easter to all our passengers over the holiday period and to everyone who's staying at home as well!
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