Sella del Diavolo, Rocky promontory in Cagliari, Italy
Sella del Diavolo is a limestone promontory that separates Poetto Beach from Calamosca Beach, rising approximately 135 meters above sea level. The rock formation features jagged edges and steep sides, with a summit that offers views across the bay and toward the distant coastline.
Ancient civilizations built water storage and temples at this strategic location, including a sanctuary dedicated to the Punic goddess Astarte during the Carthaginian period. The site served important functions for those who controlled the bay.
The name comes from a local legend about the Devil's attempt to claim the gulf, a story that shapes how residents understand this place. Visitors notice how the rocky outline resembles a saddle when viewed from the water, reinforcing this tale in people's imagination.
Two hiking paths lead to the summit, with the main trail starting from Calamosca Beach and taking about 45 minutes to reach the top. The route is manageable but requires sturdy footwear and caution on steep and sometimes slippery sections.
A cave called Grotta dei Colombi lies beneath the promontory, containing archaeological remains from the 17th century including human skeletal remains from a period of plague. Most visitors miss this underground chamber, which offers a rare window into the area's darker past.
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