Giara di Gesturi

The Giara di Gesturi was formed around 2 million years ago, following two lava eruptions from the craters of Zepparedda and Zeppara Manna, which covered the surrounding area with a layer of basalt. Watercourses and weathering have eroded the soil around this plain, but not the plain itself, as the basalt is very resistant. Thus, the Giara plateau was created.

On top of the verdant plateau, depressions in the impermeable soil where rainwater accumulates form small, shallow, temporary lakes called 'paulis'. Some amphibious species and small crustaceans can be observed in these rainwater basins.

In this unique place live the 'cavallini della Giara', wild horses, whose origins are still uncertain. They are smaller than normal horses, without being considered ponies, and have a lively and restless character.