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Carbonia
Comune di Carbonia
Carbonia - Costume tradizionale (01).JPG
Country Italy
Region Sardinia
Province Sud Sardegna
Area
 • Total 145.54 km2 (56.19 sq mi)
Elevation
111 m (364 ft)
Population
 • Total 28,581
 • Density 196.379/km2 (508.619/sq mi)
Time zone UTC+1 (CET)
 • Summer (DST) UTC+2 (CEST)
Postal code
09013
Dialing code 0781
Website http://www.comune.carbonia.ci.it

Carbonia (which means coal town in Italian) is a town and a comune (like a municipality) located on the sunny island of Sardinia, in Italy. It's part of the Province of Sud Sardegna. In 2016, about 28,581 people lived there. The town covers an area of 145.54 square kilometers (about 56 square miles) and sits 111 meters (364 feet) above sea level.

What is Carbonia?

Carbonia is a relatively new town compared to many others in Italy. It was built in the late 1930s. The town's name, "Carbonia," gives a big clue about why it was created. It comes from the Italian word carbone, meaning coal. This town was specifically built to support the important coal mining industry in the area.

Where is Carbonia Located?

Carbonia is found in the southwestern part of Sardinia. This part of the island is known for its rich natural resources, especially coal. The town is surrounded by a landscape that shows its mining past, with hills and valleys shaped by centuries of work. Being on an island, Carbonia is not far from the coast, though it's not directly on the sea.

A Brief Look at Carbonia's History

Carbonia's history is quite unique because it's a planned town. It was designed and built very quickly to house the many miners who came to work in the nearby coal mines.

The Coal Mining Era

The town was officially founded in 1938. It grew rapidly as more and more people moved there for mining jobs. Coal was a very important resource for Italy at the time, especially during World War II. The mines around Carbonia produced a lot of coal, making the town a key industrial center. Many buildings in Carbonia, like the miners' homes and public buildings, were built during this period. They often have a distinct architectural style from the 1930s.

After the Mines Closed

After World War II, the demand for coal slowly decreased. Many of the mines around Carbonia eventually closed down. This was a big change for the town, as many people lost their jobs. Carbonia then had to find new ways to support its people. Today, the town is working to develop other industries, like tourism and services. It also tries to remember its mining heritage through museums and cultural sites.

Life in Carbonia Today

Even though the coal mines are mostly closed, Carbonia remains an important town in the region. It serves as a center for the surrounding communities.

Education and Culture

Carbonia has schools for children and teenagers, as well as other public services. There are also museums that tell the story of the town's mining past. These museums help visitors and young people understand the hard work and history that shaped Carbonia. They often show tools, photos, and stories from the miners' lives.

Local Economy and Activities

Today, the economy of Carbonia is more diverse. People work in various jobs, including services, small businesses, and some light industries. The town also benefits from its location near beautiful natural areas in Sardinia, which attracts some tourists. Local markets and shops provide goods and services for the residents.

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