Pula, archaeological site of Nora, aerial view. Photo by Alessandro Addis.
Pula, archaeological site of Nora, aerial view. Photo by Alessandro Addis.

Archeological site

Nora, a gem of ancient history unique in the Mediterranean area

Nora was one of the first cities to be founded in Sardinia by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BCE. It subsequently became a Carthaginian city and finally a flourishing Roman municipality. At the center of a commercial hub, thanks to the enviable position of its port, antique Nora was a true gem as early as 200 BCE.

Pula, archaeological site of Nora, mosaics. Photo by Alessandro Addis.
Pula, archaeological site of Nora, mosaics. Photo by Alessandro Addis.

Today, this unmatched archaeological site, passed on to us in an excellent state of conservation despite the millennia, is considered one of the most enchanting sites of the entire island, also thanks to its photogenic position by the sea.

Pula, archaeological site of Nora, Roman theater. Photo by Alessandro Addis.
Pula, archaeological site of Nora, Roman theater. Photo by Alessandro Addis.

Of the ancient settlement remain preserved fascinating ruins, predominantly of Roman origins, such as the marvelous theater facing the sea, originally clad in marble, which is still used to host cultural and musical events in the summer, the thermal baths, the paved streets, the forum, the temples, the columns, the villas, and the mosaics. In the background lies a splendid piece of coastline, caressed by crystal-clear water undulating since thousands of years over some parts of the ancient settlement. The tower nearby, the Torre del Coltellazzo (also called that of Sant’Efisio), which dominates the area from the top of the promontory of Capo di Pula, makes this unforgettable view of south-western Sardinia almost look like a painting.

Pula, archaeological site of Nora, mosaics. Photo by Alessandro Addis.
Pula, archaeological site of Nora, mosaics. Photo by Alessandro Addis.