Cargeghe
Cargeghe, a millenary story
A prehistoric past
Cargeghe, a small town in the province of Sassari, boasts a prehistoric past documented by the presence of nuraghi and domus de janas in the surrounding territory. One of the most important nuraghi is Cherchizzos, together with the nuraghe of Santa Maria, which are located along the ancient Roman road of Sos Baiolos. The famous necropolis of S'Elighe Entosu, with the Domus IV called "delle spirali", is also part of Cargeghe's millenary history.
Tomb of the Giants and Medieval Tombs
According to the canon Giovanni Spano, there are also vestiges of a probable tomb of the giants near the parish church, while subsequently an enkytrismòs was discovered, together with pointed amphorae and jars full of bones. The Roman road of Sos Baiolos, as well as a vast area of ceramic fragments covering a chronological period between the 2nd century BC and the 7th century AD, are other indicators of human presence in the Cargeghe territory. Near the town, you can finally admire the site of San Pietro, which according to tradition was the original village of Cargeghe.
The Origin of the Name Cargeghe
Cargeghe is a name of uncertain origin. According to the Ploaghese canon Giovanni Spano, it would derive from the Sardinian words KAR, city CHAG, cheerful, festive city. On the other hand, Josto Miglior and Professor Massimo Pittau approach it to the pre-Latin term in Sardinian language indicating cherry: cariàsgia or cariasa, suggesting that the town was a "place rich in cherries".
From the Judicature Period to the Contemporary
The Judicature period is witnessed by the Codaghe of San Pietro di Silki and the Codaghe of San Michele di Salvenor, the first historical documents to mention the village of Cargeghe. In 1796, Cargeghe was conquered by the French, who returned the goods seized during the Napoleonic occupation. In 1882, the San Gregorio bridge over the river Coghinas was completed, making the town a center of communication between Planargia, Romangia, and Sassarese. During World War II, the town was bombed by the Allies on April 24, 1943, causing 15 deaths and extensive damage to houses.
The Artistic and Cultural Heritage of Cargeghe
Cargeghe boasts a cathedral, the church of San Giovanni Battista, built in the fifteenth century with a magnificent Gothic portal showing two animals, a griffin and a dragon pecking at the flower of respect. Other examples of religious architecture are the church of Santo Stefano, the church of the Holy Trinity, the country church of Santa Lucia, the church of San Pietro, and that of San Michele.
The Surrounding Nature
Cargeghe is located in a privileged position for exploring the surrounding nature. The town is surrounded by hills, with a suggestive view of the Gulf of Asinara. Excursions can be made in the Mediterranean woods and along the river Coghinas, ideal for sport fishing. The artificial lake of Casteldoria and the Monte Turuddo Nature Reserve are other must-see destinations.
Local cuisine and traditions
Sardinian cuisine is famous for its recipes based on meat and fish, as well as for local cheeses and salami. In Cargeghe, you can taste the fava bean soup, the baccalà alla Sassarese, the seadas, and the pane carasau. The patron saint festival of San Giovanni Battista, on June 24, is the most important event of the year, with costume parades, processions, and concerts.
Visiting Cargeghe
Cargeghe is a perfect place to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and nature of Sardinia. The various cultural attractions, natural beauty, and traditional cuisine make it an ideal destination for a trip.
