Nuraghe models Giants of Mont'e Prama

multi–towered nuraghe highest megalithic constructions ever built – after egyptian pyramids – during bronze age in mediterranean protohistoric area. central tower nuraghe arrubiu (orroli), 1 of largest in island, reached height of thirty meters , general plan of monument consists of @ least nineteen towers articulated around several courtyards, occupying area of 3000 meters square excluding village lies outside walls. result of unified design covering both keep , pentagonal bastion made @ same stage in fourteenth century bc.

a nuraghe model defined down-scaled, three-dimensional representation of nuragic towers , castles, sacred and/or political purposes. in analogy full-sized monuments, models can divided 2 general categories:

complex nuraghe models, higher central tower surrounded bastions , 4 further towers, so-called quadrilobate (or multi–towered nuraghe);
models of simple, single-towered nuraghe.

mont e prama archaeological site largest number of nuraghe models has been recovered.

sandstone nuraghe model cabras, monte prama.

at restoration center of li punti has been possible reconstruct 5 models complex nuraghes , twenty simple nuraghes. models of mont e prama characterized notable size, 1,40 m in height quadrilobates , between 14 , 70 cm in diameter single towered specimens, , unusual technical features.

these big sculptures in fact modular, unlike remaining nuraghe models sardinia, in shaft of mast tower joined top part through inter-space, pivot , binder constituted core of lead. upper platforms have been faithfully represented in various nuraghe models. on top of towers conical, dome-shaped element has been sculpted, indicating covering of staircase leading platform itself.

several architectural elements have been represented engraved signs. parapet of platform has been portrayed single or double row of incised triangles, or vertical lines, similar miniaturized nuraghes other sardinian sites, e.g. high-relief nuraghe cann e vadosu , nuraghe model meeting hut of su nuraxi in barumini. big slab-stones supporting platforms have been rendered decorative signs. stone brackets , function have been depicted means of parallel incised lines or grooves , blocks – abundantly found in archaeological sites after collapse of top parts – confirm perfect matching of these models nuragic architecture of middle , recent bronze age.

oragiana type baetyl