Sardenha

Sardenha (also known as Sardinia) is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean and an autonomous region of Italy with a special statute. Located west of the Italian mainland and south of Corsica, it covers about 24,090 square kilometers and has a population of roughly 1.6 million. The regional capital is Cagliari, while other major cities include Sassari, Olbia, Alghero, Oristano, and Nuoro. The island experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

The history of Sardenha stretches from the Nuragic civilization, known for its stone towers called nuraghi, to Phoenician, Carthaginian, and Roman rule. Through the Middle Ages it was influenced by various powers, including the Pisans and Aragonese, before becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century. Sardinian culture preserves distinct languages and traditions; Sardinian is recognized as a separate language alongside Italian.

Economically, Sardenha relies on tourism, agriculture, and mining, with dairy products such as pecorino sardo and wines like Vermentino playing notable roles. The island also has textile and artisan crafts. Key landmarks include the Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Costa Smeralda in the northeast, and the Gennargentu mountain range.

Autonomous governance is exercised by a regional council and president under a special statute. Transport links include ferries to mainland ports and airports at Cagliari, Olbia, and Alghero. The island maintains diverse landscapes—from sandy beaches to rugged mountains—making it a distinctive part of Italy.