A Journey Underground: Visiting Galleria Henry
As part of our summer 2025 family road trip across Italy, Sardinia has given us plenty of sun-drenched beaches and turquoise waters. But on August 23rd, the sea was too wavy for swimming, so we swapped sandy towels for hard hats and headed inland for a different kind of adventure.
Stepping into Sardinia’s Mining Past
At 12:00 noon, we joined a guided tour of Galleria Henry, an extraordinary mining gallery near Buggerru. Walking into the tunnel, carved deep into the mountain, we immediately felt the shift: cool air, dim light, and echoes of the past.
This gallery, once the beating heart of Sardinia’s mining industry, was used to transport lead and zinc ore straight to the coast. Our guide painted vivid pictures of life here more than a century ago—miners laboring in harsh, dangerous conditions, while wagons rattled along the narrow tracks toward the sea.
📌 History Highlight: The Buggerru Revolt of 1904
In September 1904, Buggerru became the stage for a pivotal moment in Italian history. Miners, exhausted by dangerous conditions and punishing hours, went on strike to demand better treatment. The protest ended tragically when soldiers were called in and opened fire, killing three miners.
The news spread quickly across Italy and triggered the very first general strike in Italian history, uniting workers far beyond Sardinia. Today, Buggerru is remembered not just as a mining town, but as a symbol of workers’ rights and social struggle.
Hearing that story while standing in the tunnels gave the visit real depth. It wasn’t just about old rails and machinery—it was about people whose sacrifices left a lasting mark on Italian society.
Normally, part of the visit includes a short ride on the historic mining train, but at the moment the train is not running. The good news is that they’re working on restoring it, so future visitors will hopefully get to experience that unique journey through the tunnels.
Even without the train ride, walking the gallery on foot was fascinating. For us adults, it was moving to imagine the stories of the workers who once spent their days underground, while the kids loved spotting the old carts and machinery.
Why Galleria Henry is Worth a Visit
What makes Galleria Henry so special is its mix of history, atmosphere, and scale. Unlike a museum, you don’t just look at history here—you walk through it. The sound of your footsteps on the stone, the faint smell of minerals, and the shafts of light at tunnel openings all create a vivid, almost cinematic experience.
It’s a perfect stop if you’re traveling with kids (ours found it exciting without being overwhelming), and it offers a refreshing change of pace on a hot Sardinian afternoon.
Back in Buggerru the Next Evening
Our connection with Buggerru didn’t end there. The very next evening, on August 24th, we returned to town for a special event: Cultura e Tradizioni di Sardegna 2025.
The streets came alive with local traditions—folk music, regional costumes, artisan crafts, and plenty of Sardinian food to taste. It was a wonderful contrast to the quiet tunnels of Galleria Henry the day before: from underground history to vibrant culture under the evening sky. The kids loved the lively atmosphere, and for us it was the perfect way to experience Sardinia’s traditions in a more personal, community-focused setting.
From Mines to Caves
After our tour of Galleria Henry, we also visited Grotta Su Mannau later that same day—but that’s a story for another post.
For now, Galleria Henry (and our return to Buggerru the evening after) remain highlights of our Sardinian journey: proof that this island’s treasures are not only found on its beaches, but also in its history, culture, and people.
🛠️ Mini Travel Guide: Visiting Galleria Henry
- Location: Just outside the town of Buggerru, on Sardinia’s southwest coast.
- Tour times: Visits are guided only, with departures at set times throughout the day (we joined the 12:00 noon tour).
- Duration: Around 1 hour.
- Tickets: Adults approx. €10, reduced rates for children. Tickets can be booked in advance online or purchased at the entrance (best to book in high season).
- What to bring: A light jacket (it’s cool inside, even in summer), comfortable shoes, and water.
- Family-friendly? Yes — kids will love the old mining carts and the tunnel atmosphere, though very young children might find the darkness a little intimidating.
- Important note: The historic mining train is currently not working, but restoration is underway to bring it back into service.
- Tip: Combine your visit with nearby sites like Grotta Su Mannau or plan to return in the evening if there are local cultural events, such as Cultura e Tradizioni di Sardegna, which showcase the island’s food, music, and traditions.
