The 'domus de janas' found here translate from Sardinian folklore as 'houses of the fairies' or 'houses of the witches'.
The rock sits at an elevation of approximately 60 meters above sea level.
Archaeologists have identified two distinct burial cells carved into the interior of the formation.
The trachyte stone is volcanic in origin and characteristic of the northern Sardinian landscape.
Some wall carvings within the chambers represent the 'Bull God', a prominent motif in Neolithic Sardinian religion.
Roccia dell'Elefante is a large trachyte rock formation in northern Sardinia that naturally resembles a seated elephant. The boulder contains two Neolithic domus de janas, which are prehistoric chamber tombs carved into the volcanic rock. These chambers date back to the Ozieri culture, approximately between 3500 and 2700 BCE. The rock is situated directly beside the SS 134 road, making it easily visible to passing motorists. The formation is a significant archaeological site due to the presence of engraved symbols, including stylized taurine horns, inside the tomb chambers. The elephant shape is the result of wind and rain erosion acting upon a detached portion of the local mountain range.
From the roadside pull-off directly opposite the rock to capture the full elephant silhouette.
Park in the designated area across the road rather than attempting to pull over on the shoulder of the SS 134.
Bring a flashlight if you wish to see the internal carvings of the burial chambers clearly.
Use caution when crossing the road to reach the rock as local traffic can move quickly.
Do not attempt to climb onto the top of the elephant formation, as it causes erosion and is dangerous.
Respect the archaeological site by not touching the interior carvings and refraining from littering.
