In the 8th century AD, the Byzantines were forced to relinquish control of Sardinia, which was left to defend itself alone from the ferocious attacks of the Saracen fleets.

L'Arconte di Sardegna commanded the Esercitum Sardiniae (the Sardinian Army) His army, based in Cagliari, defended the whole Golfo degli Angeli from the continuing Saracen raids from Africa. To better defend the island, L'Arconte di Sardegna decided to divide Sardinia into four zones and he gave control to four Judex. With the passing of time, these zones became autonomous and independent. Thus was born the giudicato of Cagliari, Thores, Gallura and Arborea.

Over time however, the giudici Arborea began to require defense from the neighbouring giudicato of Cagliari and constructed a series of fortifications and castles along the borders of the giudicato. The most important of these was the Castello di Arcuentu which overlooked the Campidano to the east and the coast of the Gulf of Oristano to the west. Today there are still some remains of the castle and of the walls, built to protect the few points of access, silent testimony to the history of the free and democatic giudicato of Aroborea.

Monte Arcuentu is an imposing tower with vertical walls. It was formed with all probablity in the tertiary era from volcanic activity. It is formed mainly of volcanic trachyte.

Climbing Monte Arcuentu is an exciting experience. From its summit you can enjoy a unique view. The panorama sweeps along the coast from the peninsula of Sinis to the island of San Pietro. Inland, the plain of the Campidano dominates the view, from the Gulf of Oristano to Cagliari, and all the major landmarks of south-central Sardinia can be seen, from Montiferru (itinerary in last edition), to Monte Grighine and Monte Arci, from the Giara (itinerary in edition 6/7) to the Gernnargentu, the Sette Fratelli and Monte Linas.

From the north the landscape is very varied and presents a series of irregular peaks with curious formations of andesiti known as "lama" (blade) which emerge from the volcanic trachyte like enormous knife blades.

In the south the hills are covered with mediterranean macchia and are traversed by deep valleys which descend to the sea. In this area live many Sardinian deer, fortunately now protected.

With good binoculars and a good dose of patience it is possible to observe numerous types of animal in their natural habitat. In the early morning it isn't hard to spot wild boar, foxes, martens, weasels and hares. In the day however is is easier to see jashawks, hoopoes, imperial crows and buzzards.

Also interesting from this high viewpoint is the slow and patient work of the farmers who have lived in this place for generations. An encounter with their sincere hospitality is always a positive experience. There are however many curious things on this special mountain. The rocks sculpted by weather, the plants modelled by wind, the enormity of the view and the great silence which lends one to meditation.

How to get there
From Cagliari:
Follow the state highway, SS 131 for about 44 km and leave it at Sanluri (second turning). Follow the signs for S.Gavino and Guspini.

From Oristano:
Take the state highway SS 131, and take the exit for Marrubiu, following signs to Terralba, San Nicola Arcidano and finally Guspini.

From Guspini, follow signs to Montevecchio. Passing the abandoned mine structures, the road climbs toward the town and you arrive at a crossroads. The left-hand turning enters the town while the right-hand one is signposted for Piscinas and Costa Verde. Take this right-hand turning and after less than 7 km the road for Monte Arcuentu begins.

Route length:  6 km
Difference in height:  490 m (294-784 mts. a.s.l.)
Time:  About 4 hours
Difficulty:  Minimum
Guided Excursions:  070-9364205

We begin our excursion on the path which climbs the left side of the valley. We immediately come to two gates for separating pasture, which should be closed properly. We walk through macchia, composed mainly of lentisk, broom, rock-rose, wild olive, sarsaparilla, honeysuckle, wild pear and other plants. When we come out of the macchia we emerge in a clearing right in front of Monte Arcuento. We come to quite a steep path which climbs to the opening in a fence and then joins another path. Climbing, we come across a little chapel.

Between the trees, further on, there is a little altar dedicated to Nostra Signora di Arcuentu. Behind the altar on the highest point of Monte Arcuentu is a large leaden cross. In front of the altar among big holm oaks, are the clearly visible remains of the 10th-15th century castle, constructed by the giudici of Arborea.

It is not advisable however for inexperienced trekkers to go alone. Even a small accident, particularly in certain peaks, can be dangerous. It is well worth letting the inhabitants of the numerous stazzi (shepherds' enclosures) know of your presence before you set out.