Sardinia

Sardinia is an autonomous region of Italy and the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, located west of the Italian mainland. With an area of about 24,090 square kilometers, it has a population of roughly 1.6 million. The regional capital is Cagliari.

Geographically diverse, the island features rugged mountainous interiors, including the Gennargentu range, and a long coastline punctuated by sandy beaches, cliffs, and coves. Its climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The coast contains famous resort areas along the Costa Smeralda and numerous protected areas, such as Asinara National Park and parts of the Nuorese and Ogliastra mountains.

Historically, Sardinia was settled in the Neolithic era and developed the Nuragic civilization, known for stone towers called nuraghi built from 1800 to 500 BCE. It later came under Phoenician, Carthaginian, and Roman influence, followed by various medieval dominations. The island preserves distinct linguistic traditions; Sardinian language (Sardu) is widely spoken, with varieties such as Campidanese and Logudorese, alongside Italian.

The economy relies on tourism, especially in coastal areas and archaeological sites, as well as agriculture and livestock. Sardinia is known for pecorino cheese, wines like Vermentino, and olive oil. The regional government administers with a statute of autonomy within Italy; it has its own local government and assembly.