Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Cagliari (National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari), Cagliari (must see)

The National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari is the most important archaeological institution in Sardinia, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts that trace the island’s history from prehistoric times to the Byzantine era. Since 1993, it has been housed within the Citadel of Museums. The museum’s exhibitions span four floors, offering visitors a chronological journey through Sardinian civilizations.

The first floor highlights major cultural phases, from the Neolithic period to the Byzantine age, while an important section is dedicated to the reconstruction of the tophet of Tharros, a sacred Punic burial site. The second and third floors present artifacts from significant archaeological sites in Cagliari and Oristano, emphasizing the region's historical importance. The fourth floor is reserved for temporary exhibitions, with one of its most notable displays being the "Mont'e Prama 1974-2014" exhibition, which showcases the famous Nuragic statues of Mont'e Prama.

Since 2019, the museum has operated with special autonomy under the Ministry of Culture. Its archaeological collection includes over 4,000 artifacts, reflecting nearly 7,000 years of history. Among its most significant pieces are Neolithic mother goddess figurines, Nuragic bronzes, Phoenician and Punic jewelry, Roman statues, and Byzantine religious objects. Additionally, the museum holds a remarkable ethnographic collection, which includes traditional Sardinian textiles, ceramics, weapons, and jewelry, as well as a rare 11th-century bronze aquamanile (a vessel used for handwashing rituals).

The museum offers a detailed exploration of the island’s evolution, from prehistoric communities and the Nuragic civilization to Punic, Roman, and Byzantine influences. By merging archaeology, art, and ethnography, the museum allows for a deep and immersive experience, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in the history of the Mediterranean and the civilizations that shaped Sardinia over millennia.