Chia
Let's explore the beautiful Chia!
If you're looking for a seaside destination for your holidays in Southern Sardinia, Chia is the place for you! Located in the province of South Sardinia, it's an ideal place to enjoy the crystalline sea and beautiful sandy beaches. Come with me to discover this magnificent coastal town.
Physical geography
The territory of Chia is characterized by a narrow coastal plain, flanked by the rocky hills of the Sulcis Mountains. The surrounding vegetation consists of pastures, maquis, and associations typical of coastal flora. In the coastal area, there are still remnants of juniper Mediterranean scrub.
History
The history of Chia is fascinating and very ancient. The area where the archaeological city of Bithia is located dates back to the 8th century BC and is supposed to have been a Nuragic settlement. Later, it became a Phoenician city, then Punic and finally Roman. Bithia represented in the past an intermediate maritime stopover in the circumnavigation route that linked Nora and Cagliari to the city of Sulki. In the Middle Ages, Chia was part of the Cagliari judicature and had a church dedicated to St. Andrew. In 1639, the Tower of Chia was built, which was part of the Sardinian coastal defense system against the incursions of Barbary pirates. Today, the ruins of Bithia and the Tower of Chia are two of the main tourist attractions of Chia.
Monuments and places of interest
For archaeology lovers, the ruins of the city of Bithia represent a must-see stop. Here, you can visit the remains of two temples, a tophet, and some houses. In addition, the Tower of Chia, located on a promontory, offers a panoramic view of the sea and the surrounding beaches.
For nature lovers, the Chia coast offers a unique experience. Here, you can find several bays with white and fine sandy beaches, alternating with small rocky promontories. Three coastal lagoons, frequented by flamingos and other important species, complete the landscape. In addition, in front of the coast, there are some islets among which the most important is Su Cardulinu or Isula manna.
The beaches of Chia
You can't visit Chia without spending time on its beautiful beaches. Starting from east to west, you will encounter:
- Cala de Sa Musica;
- Su Giudeu: famous for its extension of golden sand and crystal clear waters;
- Cala Cipolla: a small bay nestled between cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation. Here, you can find one of the best fish restaurants in the area!
- Tuerredda: considered by many one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, it's characterized by a crescent-shaped bay and a long stretch of white sand.
What to eat in Chia
Sardinian cuisine is famous for its high-quality products, and Chia is no exception. Here, you can find excellent restaurants that offer a wide selection of fish dishes, but also meat dishes. Don't forget to try the famous porceddu, a typical Sardinian grilled piglet, and the seadas, a dessert made of cheese and honey.
Conclusions
In summary, Chia represents one of the most beautiful coastal destinations on the island, ideal for spending your holidays immersed in nature and the history of Sardinia. Its magnificent beaches, delicious cuisine, and ancient archaeological sites make Chia a unique place. Come and discover this little Sardinian gem and you won't be disappointed!
