Gonnesa facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Gonnesa
Comune
Comune di Gonnesa
Coat of arms
Country	Italy
Region	Sardinia
Province	South Sardinia
Frazioni	Normann, Nuraxi Figus
Area
• Total	47.5 km2 (18.3 sq mi)
Elevation	40 m (130 ft)
Population  (30 November 2008)
• Total	5,149
• Density	108.40/km2 (280.8/sq mi)
Demonym(s)	Gonnesini
Time zone	UTC+1 (CET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+2 (CEST)
Postal code	09010
Dialing code	0781
Patron saint	St. Andrew
Saint day	30 November

Gonnesa is a comune (which means a municipality or town) located on the beautiful island of Sardinia in Italy. It's about 60 kilometers (37 miles) west of Cagliari, a major city in Sardinia. Gonnesa is known for its interesting history, especially its mining past, and its lovely beaches.

History of Gonnesa

The town of Gonnesa was rebuilt in the late 1700s. In the 1800s, mining became very important in this area. The mines helped the town grow a lot and brought many people to live there.

Mining in Gonnesa

Gonnesa is home to the Nuraxi Figus mine. This mine is very special because it is the very last active coal mine still working in Italy today! It shows the long history of mining in this region.

Amazing Archaeological Sites

In the area around Gonnesa, you can find an important ancient site called the nuraghe Seruci. A nuraghe is an ancient stone building that was built by the Nuragic people who lived in Sardinia thousands of years ago. These mysterious towers are unique to Sardinia.

The ancient Nuraghe Seruci site near Gonnesa.

Beautiful Beaches

Gonnesa has a long beach that stretches for almost 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). This beach is a great place for surfing, especially at a spot called Funtanamare. There are two other popular spots nearby called Plag' 'e Mesu, which means "Middle Beach" in the Sardinian language, and Porto Paglia. These beaches offer beautiful views and fun activities.

Neighboring Towns

Gonnesa shares its borders with a few other towns. These include Carbonia, Iglesias, and Portoscuso.