Area archeologica di Matzanni, Archaeological site in Iglesias, Italy

Area archeologica di Matzanni is a sacred complex at 700 m above sea level on the border of Vallermosa, Iglesias and Villacidro. In the Vallermosa part stand three Nuragic sacred wells with circular huts of the late Bronze and Iron Ages; nearby, in Iglesias territory, lie the calcarenite blocks of the Punic temple of Genna Cantoni, 7 by 12 m in plan.

The site's Nuragic phase consists of three sacred wells and circular huts from the late Bronze Age and Iron Age. In the Punic era, the temple of Genna Cantoni was built nearby at Iglesias, using calcarenite blocks on a 7 by 12 metre plan. Roman-era ceramics and a coin of Antoninus Pius show later use.

The name Matzanni probably comes from the Sardinian word for the juniper, matza, a plant still common on the slope. Finds show the sanctuary's reach: an Etruscan-made cup, spearheads and a small bronze figure nicknamed "barbetta" for its hairstyle. A coin of Antoninus Pius and pottery fragments record later Roman visits.

Visiting requires planning since access must be coordinated through local authorities and entry is limited. Access points are available from Vallermosa and Villacidro, so it helps to prepare with local resources.

The Punic temple near the sacred area is called Genna Cantoni, not Genn 'e Cantoni, and stands in the territory of Iglesias. It was built with blocks of calcarenite and measures 7 by 12 metres in plan. Finds from the site include an Etruscan-made cup, spearheads and a bronze figurine nicknamed "barbetta" for its hairstyle.