San Pietro Church: a jewel of faith and legend

Nestled within the extraordinary landscape of the Golgo Plateau, San Pietro Church rises with its pristine white façade, creating a spectacular contrast with the green Mediterranean scrub and the mountains that separate Golgo from the sea. This place of worship, one of the most cherished symbols of the area, welcomes thousands of visitors and devotees every year.

A SIMPLE ARCHITECTURE WITH AN ANCIENT HISTORY

Built between the 17th and 18th centuries thanks to donations from local shepherds, San Pietro Church stands out for its essential architecture. The building consists of a single nave, with a wooden portal inviting visitors to discover the interior, restored in the 1970s.

The church is surrounded by a stone enclosure that hosts the “us istaulus” (from the Latin stabulum), ancient lodgings once used by pilgrims during religious celebrations. A short distance from the entrance stands an anthropomorphic bètile dating back to the Nuragic era, a further testimony to the long and layered history that permeates this place.

A PLACE OF FAITH AND CELEBRATIONS

On the last Sunday of June, the church becomes the heart of the celebrations in honor of Saint Peter. The most emotional moment is the procession, during which the statue of the saint, dressed in gold, is carried among the faithful. This event, which in the past also included a palio and other traditions, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and devotion.

BETWEEN MYTH AND LEGEND

San Pietro Church is also the center of a fascinating legend. According to local folklore, the Golgo Plateau was once terrorized by Sa Serpente, an evil dragon that emerged from the chasm of Su Sterru, spreading fear among the inhabitants. Saint Peter, upon arriving in Baunei, confronted the creature and defeated it, freeing the land from its threat.

In another version of the tale, the Su Sterru sinkhole opened precisely at the moment the saint triumphed, swallowing “Sa Serpente” forever. This legend strengthens the deep bond between the people of Baunei and Saint Peter, making him the most beloved saint in the village.

L'articolo San Pietro Church proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Faccia Litica: the stone face of the Golgo Plateau

The Faccia Litica (Lithic Face), also known as the Stone Mask of Golgo, is a natural formation on the basalt wall of the Golgo Plateau that reveals a surprising human face. This unique place, where nature and mystery come together, is one of the most intriguing attractions in Baunei and its territory.

A WORK OF NATURE OR HUMAN HANDS?

When viewed from the right angle, the basalt wall reveals almost perfect human features: eyes, nose and lips carved with remarkable precision. This extraordinary phenomenon, created by erosion from rain and wind, has inspired theories that the face was shaped by the Nuragic people, making the Stone Mask a place filled with fascination and legend.

A PLACE OF MYSTERY AND WONDER

A visit to the Stone Mask is not limited to the stone face itself. A few meters downhill lies a narrow sinkhole known as Sa Nurra de Genna Sarmentu, more than 120 meters deep and appreciated by speleology enthusiasts. This place connects ideally to the nearby Baccu Dolcolce, where the dry riverbed begins and eventually leads to Cala Sisine.

On the opposite side, about fifteen minutes on foot, stand the remains of the Nuraghe of Genna Sarmentu, a basalt stone structure where some of the shelves forming the upper part of the bastion are still visible. This site, rich in history and culture, enhances the experience of anyone exploring the plateau.

HOW TO REACH THE STONE MASK

• Starting point: Agriturismo “Il Rifugio” on the Golgo Plateau, where you can easily park your car.
• Walking time: About ten minutes along a well-marked trail.
• Easy access: Along the path you will find a restored juniper staircase that makes reaching the Stone Mask simple and safe.

AN EXPERIENCE NOT TO MISS

Whether you love nature, are passionate about archaeology, or are simply curious, the Stone Mask is an unmissable stop. This place, with its carved face and surrounding historical sites, offers a journey into the wild beauty and mystery of the Golgo Plateau.

L'articolo Stone mask of Golgo proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

As Piscinas: the ancient basalt pools of Golgo

Located on the Golgo Plateau, not far from the Su Sterru sinkhole, As Piscinas are natural basalt basins that collect rainwater, creating a unique and captivating landscape. This place, rich in history and mystery, has long represented a precious water resource in a limestone territory almost entirely devoid of natural springs.

HISTORY AND MYSTERY

According to scholars, these natural basins were modified by the Nuragic people to be used during metalworking, although it is also possible that they served as sites for magical-animistic rites connected to the constant presence of water. The spiritual significance of the area is reinforced by the nearby megalithic circle, a funerary structure predating the Nuragic period, which testifies to ancient rituals and the deep bond between humans and nature.

A VITAL RESOURCE FOR SHEPHERDS

In more recent times, As Piscinas became an essential resource for local shepherds thanks to their ability to collect and retain water during the dry season. These basins, known as pressos in the Baunese dialect, were carefully adapted and maintained by sealing the cracks in the surrounding rock to prevent water loss.

Shepherds would cover the pools with juniper branches, protecting the precious water from evaporation and preventing animals from accidentally falling in. Many of these structures remain functional today, offering a remarkable testimony to the resilience, ingenuity, and intimate knowledge of the land possessed by the local communities.

L'articolo As Piscinas proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

Su Sterru: the deepest single-span sinkhole in Europe

Located on the fascinating Golgo Plateau, Su Sterru is one of the most iconic natural landmarks of the Baunei Coast. With its remarkable depth of 280 meters, this impressive karst sinkhole is the deepest single-shaft pit in Europe and attracts visitors and speleology enthusiasts from all over the world.

BETWEEN LEGEND AND NATURE

Shrouded in mystery, Su Sterru is at the center of ancient local legends. According to popular tales, the sinkhole was once inhabited by “Su Scultone,” a serpent-like creature that terrorized the people of Baunei. The construction of the nearby Church of San Pietro is said to have driven away this threat. Today, the sinkhole is home to the Sardinian cave salamander, a rare and harmless amphibian that has become a symbol of this unique natural site.

A RECORD-BREAKING NATURAL MONUMENT

Since 1993, Su Sterru has been officially recognized as a natural monument, and its geological origin is just as fascinating. Formed by centuries of rainwater erosion, this karst chasm is a masterpiece of nature. Its bottom, accessible only to highly trained speleologists, remains a coveted destination for vertical explorations.

AN EXPERIENCE NOT TO MISS

Whether you are passionate about speleology or simply a curious visitor, Su Sterru is an unmissable stop on the Golgo Plateau. Admire the majesty of this immense sinkhole from its edge and take in the mystical atmosphere that surrounds it.

If you have more time, take the opportunity to explore the entire Golgo Plateau, a place filled with natural and historical wonders. Just a short distance from Su Sterru you will find As Piscinas, natural basalt basins that collect rainwater and were once considered sacred places. These fascinating geological formations complete a unique experience in the wild nature of the Baunei Coast.

L'articolo Su Sterru proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.

The Golgo plateau: the wild heart of the baunei coast

The Golgo Plateau is a place where nature, history and mystery intertwine, offering a landscape that takes your breath away. Here, the white limestone merges with the black basalt and the green Mediterranean scrub, creating a unique contrast of colors. Set at the foot of steep mountains, this natural gem is a paradise for anyone seeking adventure and untouched beauty.

Home to ancient legends and historical landmarks, Golgo hosts wonders such as the Church of San Pietro, the Su Sterru sinkhole and the fascinating basalt pools known as As Piscinas. This plateau is not only a feast for the eyes but also the perfect starting point to explore the Supramonte and the famous coves of the Baunei Coast.

THE STARTING POINT FOR THE COVES AND VIEWPOINTS OF THE BAUNEI COAST

The Golgo Plateau is the main starting point for exploring the most iconic coves of the Baunei Coast on foot, as well as some of the most spectacular viewpoints in the region. This is where the adventure begins: an extensive network of trails leads to natural wonders that leave a lasting impression.

• Trekking to the coves: from Golgo start the hiking trails leading to treasures such as Cala Goloritzé, with its majestic natural arch; Cala Mariolu, famous for its white pebbles and turquoise water; Cala Birìala, framed by cliffs and ancient junipers; and Cala Sisine, ideal for those who love wide open spaces and tranquillity. Every path is a gateway to a piece of paradise.
• Panoramic hikes: not just coves. Golgo is also the starting point for scenic trails leading to extraordinary viewpoints such as Punta Salinas and Punta Giradili, where the view embraces the entire Baunei Coast and, on clear days, stretches all the way to southern Ogliastra.

Whether you choose to reach the crystalline waters of the coves or climb towards breathtaking views, the Golgo Plateau is the ideal place to begin your adventure in Sardinia’s wildest nature.

WHAT TO SEE ON THE GOLGO PLATEAU

The Golgo Plateau is not only a natural spectacle but also a place rich in history, legends and unique points of interest that reveal the wild soul of the Baunei Coast. Here are some must-see stops:

• Su Sterru: known as the deepest single-span sinkhole in Europe, with its 270 meters, Su Sterru is wrapped in an aura of mystery and legend. Ancient shepherds believed it was a gateway to the spirit world. This impressive chasm is a stop that leaves every visitor speechless.
• Church of San Pietro: dating back to the Spanish period, this white church stands as a jewel in the heart of the plateau. Surrounded by Mediterranean scrub, it is a place of peace and spirituality that deserves a visit.
• As Piscinas: these natural basalt basins collect rainwater and were once considered sacred places. Perfect for a photo stop, they tell the ancient story of the territory.
• The Lithic Face (Faccia Litica): an extraordinary formation on the basalt wall that reveals a human face when observed from the right angle. Full of mystery and charm, this natural sculpture may even be the work of the Nuragic people, making it one of the most intriguing attractions on the plateau.
  
• The Supramonte of Baunei: this vast area, extending from the Golgo Plateau, is considered one of Sardinia’s natural wonders. A paradise for hikers and lovers of unspoiled nature.

Whatever adventure you choose, the Golgo Plateau will offer an unforgettable experience in the untouched wilderness of Sardinia.

GOLGO PLATEAU MAP

Consult the interactive map to discover the trails, points of interest and plan your visit to the Golgo Plateau at its best.

L'articolo The Golgo plateau proviene da Costa di Baunei | Sardinia.