Huts around Biddanoa Franca/Villanovafranca offer a glimpse into Sardinia's pastoral heritage. This region is historically associated with traditional Sardinian shepherd huts, known as "pinnettas" or "cuile." These structures feature a circular stone base and a conical roof, reflecting ancient building techniques. The area provides a connection to the island's past way of life and the ingenuity of its former inhabitants.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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There is a documentary about the model for this modern, but reminiscent of ancient models, documentation - which in my opinion is fully recommended: The German-language television series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" is dedicated to the UNESCO world cultural heritage of the "NURAGHI" in Sardinia and a fifteen-minute contribution to the traditional shepherd's song known there as “Canto a Tenore”. The text accompanying the program says “Over seven thousand round towers made of stone pieces weighing tons are scattered all over Sardinia. Often only the stumps of these megalithic buildings, called nuraghi, remain. The first were around 1400 BC. Built. Small stones were placed between the mighty blocks, a construction method that made the stone towers collapse-proof.” This article (episode 413 of the series) is available in the ARD media library under the following link: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/sardinien/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS8xNTg4MzM5MA
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As we pass, it is left to itself
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typical Sardinian huts with stone bases and cone-shaped foliage or branches. By type and materials they are almost identical to the huts of the Nuragic era. Normally used as a shelter for shepherds in inaccessible places
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Some unfortunately destroyed by the incivility of today.
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The Pinnettas are the typical Sardinian huts. Generally built on a stone base and covered with conical domed fronds or branches. Generally used by shepherds as shelter in remote areas. for materials and construction technique they are completely similar to the huts of the Nuragic era
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Cute old cottage with an interesting stone colour
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It is a fantastic experience when you are just looking around the small old village and suddenly one of the small wild horses is walking behind you. There is also a nice picnic area here.
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It is not a nuragic settlement, but the last huts of the shepherds, the so-called "pinnettas" of the 1960s. These correspond to the construction of the Nuragic period.
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The region is known for traditional Sardinian shepherd huts, called "pinnettas" or "cuile." These structures typically feature a circular stone base and a conical roof made of branches or fronds. They represent a tangible link to Sardinia's ancient pastoral traditions and a way of life that has largely faded.
The huts around Biddanoa Franca/Villanovafranca are historically significant as they showcase ancient building techniques, particularly the dry-stone base, which is thought to correspond to the Nuragic period. They were traditionally used by shepherds as temporary shelters, reflecting Sardinia's deep-rooted pastoral heritage.
Yes, you can visit Pinnettas Shepherd Huts, which represent the last huts of shepherds from the 1960s and reflect Nuragic construction styles. Another notable example is Pinnetta, a historical hut built with a stone base and conical fronds, similar to those of the Nuragic era.
Yes, you can explore sites like the Ancient Stone Hut, where only ruins remain. This site offers a glimpse into historical construction with an interesting stone color and provides insight into the durability of these ancient structures.
Yes, some huts are considered family-friendly. For instance, Pinnettas Shepherd Huts are categorized as family-friendly and offer a unique historical experience for all ages.
The area around Biddanoa Franca/Villanovafranca offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the easy "Pauli Piccia Wild Horses – Pinnettas Shepherd Huts loop," or moderate cycling routes like the "Giara ponies – Giara di Gesturi Plateau loop." For more options, explore the hiking guide, cycling guide, or MTB trails guide for the region.
Yes, there are hiking trails that incorporate the huts. For example, the "Pauli Piccia Wild Horses – Pinnettas Shepherd Huts loop" is an easy 7 km hike that includes the traditional shepherd huts. You can find more hiking options in the hiking guide for Biddanoa Franca/Villanovafranca.
Visitors appreciate the authentic connection to Sardinia's past and the ingenuity of its former inhabitants. The huts offer a unique glimpse into ancient pastoral traditions and construction methods. The komoot community has shown strong appreciation, with over 100 upvotes and 35 photos shared for the huts in the area.
While specific seasonal recommendations for the huts are not provided, generally, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for exploring historical sites and engaging in outdoor activities in Sardinia, avoiding the intense summer heat.
Yes, the town of Villanovafranca also features significant archaeological sites, such as the Nuraghe Su Mulinu. While not a hut, this megalithic monument provides crucial insight into the ancient construction methods that influenced later traditional structures like the pinnettas.
"Pinnettas" and "cuile" are traditional Sardinian shepherd huts. They are characterized by a circular stone base and a conical roof made of branches or fronds, often juniper trunks. These structures were historically used by shepherds as temporary shelters in remote areas, providing protection and a space for daily life.


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