Things to do in Cheremule
Things to see in Cheremule, Sardinia: the Moseddu necropolis and Tomba Branca petroglyphs, the Monte Cuccuruddu volcano and the Valley of the Nuraghi.
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Cheremule (Chelèmure in Sardinian) is a small village in the Meilogu, in the Logudoro, at the foot of Monte Cuccuruddu, an extinct, wooded volcano, about 2 km from Thiesi and roughly 40 km from Sassari. Its land belongs to the Meilogu volcanic crater landscape and looks onto the Valley of the Nuraghi. It is an ideal stop for nature, views and a prehistory told through carvings that are unique in Sardinia.
What to see in Cheremule
The Moseddu necropolis and Tomba Branca
Cheremule's gem is the pre-nuragic necropolis of Moseddu: several domus de janas ("fairy houses", rock-cut tombs) decorated inside and out with carvings and bull protomes, stylised bulls' heads. Here is Tomba Branca, with rare petroglyphs of human figures, so significant that they appear on the village coat of arms.
Monte Cuccuruddu
Monte Cuccuruddu, an extinct volcanic cone about 680 metres high, is covered in pine forest and offers a viewpoint over the Meilogu valleys. The Su Tippiri wood stretches from the edge of the village to the road to Thiesi.
The village
The 16th-century parish church of San Gabriele Arcangelo is in Catalan-Gothic style; there is also the church of Santa Croce. You will find a few murals in the village, while the countryside keeps its pinnettas, round stone shepherds' huts.
Things to do in Cheremule
- Hike Monte Cuccuruddu among pines and views.
- Guided tour of the Moseddu necropolis and its petroglyphs.
- Trails in the Valley of the Nuraghi, one of Sardinia's richest areas for nuraghi.
- Woodland walks in Su Tippiri.
Right below you will find the hikes and tours offered by local operators: choose and book yours.
History
The area was inhabited in the Neolithic and then in the nuragic age. In the Middle Ages Cheremule belonged to the Judicate of Torres; after 1259 it passed to the Doria and around the mid-14th century to the Aragonese. In 1636 it became part of the Marquisate of Montemaggiore, later held by the Manca family, until it was bought out in 1839. The village gave its name to cheremulite, a lava stone used in the late 20th century for its insulating properties. In 2010 the funeral of former Italian president Francesco Cossiga was held here.
Food and local products
This is serious cheese country: nearby Thiesi is known for its pecorino. At the table expect cheeses, lamb and suckling pig, and the breads and sweets of the Logudoro.
Festivals and traditions
The main feast honours the patron saint, San Gabriele Arcangelo, on 29 September.
Nearby
- Thiesi, about 2 km away, with its museum dedicated to Aligi Sassu.
- Torralba and Nuraghe Santu Antine.
- Borutta and the basilica of San Pietro di Sorres.
- Giave, with Nuraghe Oes and Pedra Mendalza.
- Bonnanaro and the Corona Moltana necropolis.
Getting there and when to go
The nearest airport is Alghero-Fertilia, under an hour's drive; the ferry port is Porto Torres. Leave the SS 131 near Torralba. Spring and autumn are ideal for walking on Cuccuruddu.
FAQ
What are the Tomba Branca petroglyphs?
Prehistoric human-shaped carvings in the rock of a domus de janas, rare in Sardinia.
How long do I need for Cheremule?
Half a day for Moseddu and Monte Cuccuruddu; a full day with the Valley of the Nuraghi.
Is Cheremule good for families?
Yes: the pine forest and woods offer shade and easy walks.
