Giara di Gesturi

The Giara di Gesturi is a vast basalt plateau in central-southern Sardinia, famous for the small wild horses known as cavallini della Giara and for an ecosystem that contrasts sharply with the plains below.

The Giara rises distinctly above the hills of Marmilla and Sarcidano. Its relatively flat summit preserves woodland, grassland, seasonal wetlands and traces of ancient human activity, creating a landscape that feels almost isolated from the surrounding countryside.

The symbol of the plateau is the cavallino della Giara, a small horse population living in semi-wild conditions. Sightings are never guaranteed, but encountering a herd while walking is one of the area's most distinctive experiences.

Natural depressions on the plateau fill with rainwater and form seasonal pools known locally as paulis. Spring and autumn bring water, flowers and vivid colours, while summer creates a drier, more open landscape.

The plateau preserves nuraghi, ancient remains and traces of historic routes. Several access points lead up from Gesturi and neighbouring towns. Routes can be explored on foot, by bicycle or with guided visits.

The Giara does not belong to a single municipality: the plateau extends across several territories in Marmilla and Sarcidano. In this database, Gesturi is used as the main reference point, while the page should reflect the area's cross-municipal character.