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Dirk Rauschenbach

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Giara steinige Landschaft Giara di Gesturi Wildpferde und Korkeichen

Giara di Gesturi is a large plateau located in the central part of Sardinia, specifically in the Gesturi municipality, in the Southern Sardinia region. It is one of the most important and distinctive natural areas of the island, known for its unique landscape, biodiversity, and historical significance.

Key Features of Giara di Gesturi:

1. Geography and Landscape:

• Giara di Gesturi is a flat-topped hill or plateau, covering an area of approximately 40 square kilometers.
• The plateau is made up of rich meadows, grasslands, and rocky outcrops, surrounded by cliffs and valleys. It offers a remarkable landscape that feels like stepping back in time due to its unspoiled beauty.

2. Flora and Fauna:

• The Giara is home to a variety of unique and rare species of plants and animals. The vegetation consists primarily of Mediterranean scrub with species such as cork oak, juniper, and myrtle.
• Wildlife: One of the most famous inhabitants of the Giara di Gesturi is the Sardinian wild horse (known as the Cavallino della Giara), a small and endemic breed of horse. These horses have lived in the area for thousands of years and are one of the last remaining wild populations of horses in Europe.
• The plateau is also home to various birds, wild boars, foxes, and reptiles. The Sardinian wild horse is especially revered for its connection to the island’s cultural and natural heritage.

3. Sardinian Wild Horses (Cavallini della Giara):

• The Sardinian wild horse is one of the most iconic species in Giara di Gesturi. These horses are typically small, measuring about 1.30 meters at the shoulder. They have a short coat and a characteristic mane. They roam freely across the plateau and are an important part of the island's natural heritage.
• The horses are believed to be descendants of ancient domesticated horses brought to Sardinia during prehistoric times. Today, they are protected and have become a symbol of the island’s biodiversity.

4. Historical Significance:

• Giara di Gesturi has archaeological importance, with evidence of ancient settlements and nuragic structures scattered across the area. The Nuragic civilization, which flourished on Sardinia between the Bronze Age and Iron Age, left behind various stone structures (such as nuraghi, well temples, and tombs), which can be found in the surrounding areas.
• The region is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Sardinia, where evidence of prehistoric life, rituals, and settlements still remains.

5. Activities and Attractions:

• Hiking and Walking: The Giara di Gesturi is an excellent destination for hiking, with numerous walking trails that allow visitors to explore the plateau's unique landscape and observe its flora and fauna. The viewpoints provide breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and the island’s central plain.
• Wild Horse Watching: Visitors can observe the wild horses in their natural habitat. The best time to spot them is usually early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the horses graze in the meadows or drink from the natural water holes on the plateau.
• Photography and Birdwatching: The landscape is perfect for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light creates dramatic contrasts on the plateau. Birdwatching is also a popular activity, as the area is home to various species of birds, including buzzards, sparrowhawks, and eagles.

6. Protected Area and Conservation:

• The Giara di Gesturi is part of the Sardinian Regional Natural Park of the Giara, which aims to protect the unique ecosystems, including the Sardinian wild horses and other wildlife species.
• The wild horses are part of ongoing conservation efforts to preserve their population and ensure they thrive in their natural habitat, which is increasingly rare in Europe.

7. Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit Giara di Gesturi is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the landscape is lush and vibrant. Summer can be hot, but it’s still a great time to enjoy the outdoors if you are prepared for the heat.

8. Getting There:

• The Giara di Gesturi plateau is easily accessible by car, and the nearest towns are Gesturi and Serrenti, both of which are well connected to the rest of the island by road.
• If you’re traveling from Cagliari, the plateau is about 50 kilometers away, making it an easy day trip from the capital of Sardinia.

Summary:

Giara di Gesturi is a remarkable natural and cultural site, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of Sardinia’s interior, with its breathtaking landscapes, wild horses, rich flora and fauna, and fascinating archaeological sites. Whether you're hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the views, the plateau is a must-visit for anyone exploring the heart of Sardinia.

26.02.25 Copyright   Dirk  Rauschenbach Koelnerstrasse 293 51702 Bergneustadt  Datenschutzerklaerung   02261 9788972  Mail ccooly( at) web.de