The history of Tavolara
Nature's Symphony
Nature's Symphony
The smallest kingdom in the world
There history of Tavolara Its roots date back to the 18th century and are intertwined with tales of kings, family traditions, and an extraordinary landscape in the heart of Sardinia. Located in the Gulf of Olbia, near Porto San Paolo, Tavolara Island is today one of the most fascinating destinations on Sardinia's northeastern coast.
The emerald sea, Mediterranean vegetation, and imposing cliffs make this place unique, but it is above all its history that makes it legendary.
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
The smallest kingdom in the world
Giuseppe Bartoleoni discovered the uninhabited island of Tavolara by chance in the late 1700s and decided to build a house there. From then on, the royal family never left the island. The Bartoleonis, despite being the sole permanent residents of Tavolara, did not easily obtain sovereignty over the territory, but it was granted after numerous appeals and insistence, even before the King of Sardinia.
The current owner of Ristorante Da Tonino Re di Tavolara is a direct descendant of the royal sovereigns and thus shows his history in an ancient family photo displayed inside the restaurant.
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
Tavolara today
Not only the natural beauty of the area, but also the legendary history of the Bartoleoni family give the island a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Don't miss the view of the colors of the sea and the austere rocks towering over the cliffs, the walks on the white sand along the slowly disappearing isthmus, or a visit to the small cemetery where the tombstones of the first king of Tavolara and his descendants are located, reliving their entire history step by step.
FAQ
What is the history of Tavolara?
Tavolara's history begins in the late 1700s, when Giuseppe Bertoleoni landed on the then-uninhabited island and decided to settle there with his family. After several official recognitions, the Kingdom of Tavolara was born, considered one of the smallest kingdoms in the world.
Was Tavolara really a kingdom?
Yes, Tavolara was recognized as an independent kingdom in the 19th century. The Bertoleoni family obtained the royal title and ruled the island for generations. Even today, descendants of the royal family live on the island and preserve its historical memory.
Where is Tavolara Island located?
Tavolara Island is located in the Gulf of Olbia, Sardinia, opposite the town of Porto San Paolo. It is part of the Tavolara-Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area.
Why is the history of Tavolara so famous?
The history of Tavolara is famous because it tells of a real kingdom, founded almost by chance on an uninhabited island, and passed down through generations by the same family. This mix of fact and legend makes Tavolara one of Sardinia's most fascinating historical curiosities.
Learn more about the history of Tavolara
Come visit us and discover all the curiosities of the island of Tavolara.
