The central stele is carved from a single massive granite block and features a small opening at its base, symbolic of a passage to the afterlife.
Archaeological digs at the site yielded bronze rings and pottery fragments dating from the Nuragic period.
The monument was expanded over time; the original dolmen-like tomb was later enclosed by the impressive semicircular exedra.
Coddu Vecchiu belongs to the 'tomb with stele' architectural class, distinct from the simpler gallery graves found elsewhere in Sardinia.
The orientation of the tomb is aligned precisely to the south-east, likely linked to celestial movements or solar cycles.
The Giants' grave of Coddu Vecchiu is one of the best-preserved examples of Nuragic funerary architecture in Sardinia. The structure dates back to the Middle Bronze Age, with the central stele and tomb chamber constructed in phases beginning around 1800 BC. It features a central granite stele measuring over 4 meters in height, which sits at the heart of an exedra formed by a semicircular arrangement of upright stone slabs. The burial chamber is elongated and covered with heavy granite slabs, originally designed for collective burials. Excavations have revealed that the site was utilized across several centuries, showing evolution in its architectural layout. The site is part of the Arzachena archaeological circuit in the Gallura region. The surrounding landscape consists of typical Mediterranean scrubland and granite outcrops.
From the front of the central stele looking outward to capture the symmetry of the semicircular exedra against the valley backdrop.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the uneven, rocky terrain surrounding the monument.
Bring sun protection, as the site offers minimal shade during peak daytime hours.
Combine your visit with the nearby Nuraghe La Prisgiona to get a comprehensive view of local Bronze Age life.
Avoid visiting at midday during the summer months when heat levels are extreme and there is no cover.
Open daily throughout the year, but may have reduced maintenance hours during the winter low season.
Do not climb, sit on, or lean against the ancient stone structures to ensure their preservation.
