Lunamatrona

Population: 1,930
Altitude: 168m. above sea level

The town of Lunamatrona lies just a few km. from Villanovaforru and has been inhabited by man since pre-Nuragic times. Evidence of the extraction and working of obsidian found in the area bears witness to this ancient history. Further testimony to this rich past can be seen in the five Nuragic comlexes and the eleven single towered Nuraghi, as well as the Giants' tomb and the sacred well, all in the surrounding territory.

The area also abounds in remains from the Roman era, such as the impressive tombstones and various objects, including vases, lamps and painted ceramics.

Thanks to the excavation work carried out in recent years, today visitors can admire:

• the Pitzu Cummu Nuraghe
  
  
• the Trombas Protonuraghe
  
  
• the Giants' Tomb of "Su Cuaddu de Nixias", which dates back to 3.000 b. C..
  The tomb's position and the archaeolological finds which have been uncovered there suggest that it was also used by the inhabitants of the nearby Nuraghi.

The Parish Church of S. Giovanni Battista (XVI century) stands majestically in the centre of the town. It was built in late Gothic style and later modified in Baroque style in the XVIII and XIX centuries. Inside the church there is an extraordinary retable attributed to Antonio Mainas of the Cagliari School known as "di Stampace".

The town of Lunamatrona is worth a visit to see the interesting architecture of the period manor houses, in particular the house called "Serpi-S.Cruz". Here, visitors can admire ancient instruments and furnishings which reveal traditions of country life in Sardinia, as well as ancient weapons, wrought iron beds from the nineteenth century and silver clocks of great artistic value.

Visitors should also see "Casa Melis" and "Casa Setzu", two other examples of typical Sardinian country houses.

The territory's Museum is situated within easy reach of the area's most important Nuragic settlements. The museum is both a research centre and an essential reference point for those wishing to have a deeper insight into the territory's past and present history. It is divided into four sections: botany - fauna - geology - anthropology.

Lunamatrona is the ideal holiday destination for those wishing to discover the delights of the Marmilla region, including the territory's museum, the plateau known as the "Giara di Gesturi", the Nuraghe of Barumini, as well as the Nuraghe and Archaeological Museum of Genna Maria at Villanovaforru, Sa Domu 'e S'Orcu of Siddi, the Castle of Sanluri and the Archaeological Museum of Sardara.

The town's economy is based on cereal production and sheep farming. However, the area also produces excellent hard wheat, melons and the fine Malvasia wine.

Visitors to the town should not miss the many feasts and festivals which are held throughout the year. Among the most interesting we recommend:

• S. Sebastiano - 20 January.
  During this festival the inhabitants of the town gather round an enormous bonfire and offer visitors the chance to sample a vast array of gastronomic specialities from the area, all accompanied by the fine local wine.
  
  
• Bike ride or walk in the country - 2 May.
  This is a picnic lunch in the country organised by the local people and the town Council of Lunamatrona. It is followed by an evening of entertainment offered by various folk groups.
  
  
• Sa Badrunfa e su Tirollasticu - 3rd Sunday in June.
  This festival celebrates ancient games and concludes with a traditional feast of boiled broad beans and snails.
  
  
• San Giovanni Battista - Patron Saint of the town - 23-25 June.
  This is a religious festival which starts in the morning with the celebration of mass and a procession accompanied by a musical band and groups in typical Sardinian costumes. The celebrations continue all afternoon and evening with music, dancing and folklore, and ends with a magnificent firework display.
  
  
• The Festival of the melon, Malvasia wine and other local products - 1st Sunday in September.
  During the festivities visitors can sample delicious local products and admire the fine work of skilled artisans from the area. The day continues with the Festival of the Sheep, with eating and drinking, and concludes with music and traditional Sardinian dancing.
  
  
• Video-game Tournament and the Chick-pea Festival - 4th Sunday in September.