Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and an autonomous region of Italy. It is located to the west of Italy and south of Corsica, France. The island's capital and largest city is Cagliari.
Sardinia is renowned for its varied and beautiful landscape, which ranges from rugged mountains and dense forests to stunning beaches and crystal-clear sea waters. Its coastline, which spans over 1,849 kilometers, is one of the longest in Italy and offers a plethora of bays, beaches and cliffs.
The region's history dates back to prehistoric times, with artifacts and structures from the Nuragic civilization, dating from 1500 BC, found around the island. The island was later occupied by various empires like the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Spanish, and Austrians before becoming a part of Italy.
This rich history is reflected in the region's diverse culture and architecture, which includes Roman amphitheaters, medieval castles, and indigenous Nuraghi stone structures. The region is also famous for its unique traditions, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals, such as the Sartiglia carnival in Oristano and the Cavalcata Sarda in Sassari.
Sardinia's economy primarily relies on tourism, agriculture, and the mining and processing of various minerals. In particular, its food and wine sectors are flourishing, thanks to quality products like Vermentino wine, Pecorino cheese, and honey.
Despite the influx of modernity, Sardinia has managed to preserve much of its unspoiled wilderness, which is home to several rare and protected species, including the Mediterranean monk seal and griffon vulture. The island is also known for its "Blue Zones," areas where people live longer than the world average, which is attributed to their lifestyle, diet, and genetic factors.