Rising dramatically above the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Cagliari, the Devil’s Saddle — Sella del Diavolo — is one of Sardinia’s most iconic natural landmarks.
Seen from the sea, its unmistakable shape has inspired myths, legends, and centuries of fascination.
But this rocky promontory is more than a symbol: it is a place where history, nature, and the Mediterranean meet.
A place shaped by time
Geologically, the Devil’s Saddle tells a story that spans millions of years. Limestone formations sculpted by wind and salt, ancient caves carved by the sea, and steep cliffs plunging into crystal-clear water make this headland a unique coastal environment.
Long before modern Cagliari existed, the area was already inhabited. Archaeological remains show traces of Phoenician and Roman presence, attracted by the strategic position overlooking the gulf.
From above, the view stretches from the city skyline to the open sea — a natural balcony over southern Sardinia.
Legends of angels and demons
According to local legend, the Devil’s Saddle was formed after a battle between angels and demons for control of the Gulf of Cagliari.
When the demons were defeated, Lucifer was thrown from his saddle, which fell into the sea and turned into stone — giving the promontory its evocative name.
Whether myth or metaphor, the legend adds an aura of mystery that still surrounds the place today, especially at sunset, when the rocks glow with warm golden tones.
The Devil’s Saddle from the sea
Approaching the Devil’s Saddle by boat offers a completely different perspective.
From the water, hidden coves appear at the base of the cliffs, accessible only by sea. The clarity of the water reveals seabeds perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the silence away from the city creates a sense of escape that feels almost timeless.
It is here that the landscape shows its most authentic side — wild, elegant, and deeply Mediterranean.
A symbol of Cagliari
For locals, the Devil’s Saddle is not just a natural monument; it is part of the city’s identity.
It marks the boundary between urban life and open nature, between everyday routines and the call of the sea.
For visitors, it often becomes the image they associate forever with Cagliari: a place remembered not only for its beauty, but for the feeling it leaves behind.
Some places are meant to be admired from afar. Others are meant to be experienced slowly — with time, silence, and the sea around you.
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