Visitors may choose to visit
Sardinia for the island’s relaxing charm,
sunshine and beaches, but it is hard to ignore the spiritual peace which
this island exudes. Known as a place of healing for many centuries with
many religious and spiritual sites, Sardinia is undoubtedly an
individual and mystical island.
Its separation from Italy’s mainland has over time created a uniqueness
in the language, the native vocal singing known as "cantu a tenore", the
endemic species of birds and the variety of rare species of mammals
which all call Sardinia their home. The spiritual side of this lovely
island has also developed in a unique and individual way. Perhaps the
absence of large city developments and modern day "progress" has left
the island undisturbed, keeping intact the promptings which led former
civilizations to build the sacred pits, tombs and nuraghe which are
scattered across the island.
Exploring these interesting and sacred places is a fascinating insight
into the spiritual side of the island which has led to its unique
reputation as an island containing spiritual powers, particularly for
healing.
Ancient Tombs
High in the mountains of inland Sardinia you will find the 5,000 year
old "Domus de Janas" which means "Houses of the fairies" and the "Tombe dei Giganti" or
"Tomb of the giants" which is a tomb encased within the
rocks. These stones have been the site of pilgrimage for thousands of
years and are believed to contain healing energy.
The ancient Tomb of the Giant can be found in a quiet spot near Palau in
northernSardinia. Recently an ancient temple which probably dates back
5000 years was also discovered here in the mountains behind the tomb.
The spiritual intensity and atmosphere in the temple is intense. The big
stone has long been a place where families have come for healing. They
take turns to lie underneath the threshold carved in the big stone
before return home renewed and reinvigorated.
Sacred Pits
The sacred well or pit known as "Santa Cristina" is just inland from
Oristano at Paulilatino. It was an important temple and place of
initiation, constructed in ancient times probably around 3000 years ago.
It certainly shows a remarkable knowledge and understanding of
astrological influences as at sunrise during the solstice and equinox,
the sun’s rays reach right down the inner staircase to the water at the
bottom of the well. Only once every 18 years the full moon shines down
directly through a small hole in the ceiling of the pit room and
reflects in the water. This unique moment is believed to be the very
best time when intense healing energy is released.
Nuraghe
These ancient stone towers can be found scattered all over the island.
While some see them as defensive fortresses, they were in fact probably
used as sun temples. The tapering walls have a small hole in the top
through which the sun’s rays only shine on the summer solstice – June
21.
With all these sites of spiritual healing powers, perhaps this is the
reason why Sardinia has one of the highest rates of centenarians
in the
world. Along with the Japanese island of Okinawa, Sardinia has 22
residents per 100,000 inhabitants who are over 100 years old. It is
certainly an interesting statistic which gives pause for thought.