The beach of Nora is located within the municipal territory of Pula in southern Sardinia.
It lies within walking distance from the archaeological park of Nora, home of one of Sardinia's most important cities from the Punic and Roman periods (6th to 1st century BC). Some ruins are visible from the beach.
It was here, in the early 1900s, that a sea storm brought to light the 'Tophet': an open-air sanctuary where the bone remains of children who died prematurely were laid to rest in cinerary urns. A 16th century tower (named ‘Coltellazzo') watches over the bay, guarding it against attacks by Saracen pirates in the past.
The bay is also home to the Romanesque church of Sant'Efis, the place where the island's most celebrated saint allegedly experienced his martyrdom.
The original layout of the church dates back to the Byzantine era (around the 5th century AC), but it was renovated in Romanesque forms around the 10th century AC. Every year, the folk and religious festival of Sant'Efis takes place here between the end of April and the first days of May, and the procession to honour the statue of the Madonna del Mare in July.
Approximately 500 metres long and an average of 20 metres wide, the beach features white and golden sand gently lapped by clear blue water. It borders to the north with the beaches of Is Figus and Su Guventeddu, which are divided by a narrow strip of sand. Its shallow waters and its sheltered position make it particularly suitable for families with children. Facilities here are plentiful: in addition to ample parking for cars and campers, there are bars, restaurants, beach kiosks and numerous hotels in the vicinity.
Behind the beach is a beautiful lagoon with a marina - a spectacular view at sunset! It is also home to a fishpond and an environmental education centre focusing on marine flora and fauna.
Access mode
Nora is an easy 45-minute drive along the S.S. 195 from Cagliari. Once in the town of Pula, road signs clearly mark the way to the beach and the adjacent archaeological site.
Viale Nora & Laguna di Nora, 09010 Pula CA, Italia
Accessibility: Good
Useful links
Settlement of Nora
Tower of St Efis or of the Coltellazzo
Map
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