Benetutti
Benetutti: An Ancient Town in Sardinia
Welcome to Benetutti, a small Italian municipality located in the historic region of Goceano in the province of Sassari. With a population of only 1698 inhabitants, Benetutti is an ancient town that preserves numerous traces of Nuragic and Roman civilization in its area. In this article, we will explore the history, symbols, monuments, and places of interest of this fascinating Italian city.
Origins of the Name
The name "Benetutti" seems to derive from the toponym "bena de Tudi" which means "vein/spring of Tudi" referring to the thermal springs present in the city. Over the centuries, the name of the city has been written in various ways, but it is currently called "Benetutti."
History
Benetutti was founded a long time ago and preserves numerous traces of the past. In the city's territory, it is possible to find various giant tombs, Domus de Janas, and constructions dating back to the Neolithic. The Romans left some traces of their presence, as shown by the thermal bath located within the San Saturnino Baths. The city was part of the Judicate of Torres and the curatorship of Goceano or Anela. Later, after the fall of the Judicate of Arborea, it became part of the territories of the Marquisate of Oristano. In 1478, it passed to the Aragonese who made it a royal fief and in 1839, with the abolition of the feudal system, it became an autonomous municipality administered by a mayor and a city council.
Symbols
The coat of arms and the banner of the municipality of Benetutti were granted by decree of the President of the Republic on August 8, 1994. The coat of arms can be described as: a shield per fess gules and or, with a kid topped by a six-pointed star.
Monuments and Places of Interest
The city of Benetutti hosts numerous places of worship. Among these, the Church of Sant'Elena, the Church of Santa Croce, the Church of San Timoteo, the Church of San Salvatore, the Church of Santa Rosalia, and the Church of Santa Barbara stand out. In particular, the Church of Sant'Elena preserves a retablo, dating back to 1549 and attributed to the Master of Ozieri, which is considered one of the most original expressions of Sardinian Renaissance art. The city also hosts the Church of the Blessed Virgin of Boloe.
The San Saturnino Baths are an important civic monument of Benetutti. This thermal complex dates back to imperial times and features a vast thermal area.
Archaeological Sites
The city of Benetutti also hosts several traces of ancient history. In the municipal territory, there are several Giant Tombs, Domus de Janas, and other constructions dating back to the Neolithic. The city also hosts the Nuraghe S'Aspru, the Domus de Janas 'Tomba del Labirinto unicursale," and the Dolmen of Monte Maone.
Historical Sites
The Aquae Lesitanae Baths are an important thermal complex dating back to the imperial age. Roman vestiges were discovered in 1971, and in 1983, the "calidarium" with mosaics was discovered as well. Near the ancient Aquae Lesitanae Baths stands the shrine dedicated to the god Asclepius or Esculapius, as shown by the discovery of two columns and three altars, one of which bears a votive dedication to the god Esculapius.
In conclusion, Benetutti is a fascinating city that offers a variety of historical and cultural places of interest. The city preserves numerous traces of its past and represents an interesting destination for lovers of art and history.
