Sant’ Andria Priu, located in the small town of Bonorva in Sardinia, Italy, is one of the most fascinating and mysterious ancient structures in the world. Often referred to as a dolmen, this ancient monument has puzzled scholars for centuries, with many experts unsure of its true purpose or origin.
Dolmens, also known as megalithic tombs, are ancient structures typically consisting of three or more upright stones supporting a large flat horizontal capstone. They are found throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa and are believed to have been used for burials and possibly as places of worship.
Sant’ Andria Priu, however, does not fit the typical characteristics of a dolmen. Instead of the usual three or more upright stones, it features a single massive monolith weighing an estimated 50 tons, standing upright and supporting a horizontal capstone. The capstone, which is also massive and weighs an estimated 20 tons, sits on top of the monolith at an angle, creating a triangular space beneath it.
The true purpose of Sant’ Andria Priu remains a mystery, with theories ranging from it being a sacred site for prehistoric worship, a burial chamber, or even an astronomical observatory. Some experts believe that the alignment of the capstone with the rising sun during the summer solstice suggests that it may have been used for astronomical observations.
Others argue that the triangular space beneath the capstone may have been used for burials, similar to traditional dolmens.
Despite its mysterious origins, Sant’ Andria Priu remains an impressive and fascinating ancient structure that continues to capture the imagination of scholars and visitors alike.
It is also important to note that the structure has been studied by archaeologists, and they found out that the site was used in prehistory as well as during the Roman period. The site was also used as a necropolis and sanctuary.
In conclusion, Sant’ Andria Priu, located in Bonorva Sardinia, is an ancient mysterious structure that has puzzled scholars for centuries. The true purpose and origin of the structure are still not clear but it has been used by different cultures and civilizations throughout history. It remains an impressive and fascinating ancient structure that continues to capture the imagination of scholars and visitors alike.