Overview
From the summit of Posada promontory, Fava Castle proudly dominates this stretch of the Sardinian coast. Historians are still unable to say for sure in which year the castle was built, but it was certainly already standing in the 13th century. Its imposing presence offered protection against the incursions of pirates and invaders that constantly threatened the Sardinian coast, and it's the turbulent medieval history of the Baronie that is the source of the legend from which the castle takes its curious name. The story tells of how a group of Saracen pirates relentlessly assailed Posada, trying to conquer the town by starving its people. The inhabitants who had taken refuge in the fortress devised a cunning plan to free themselves of the invaders. First, they fed a pigeon with a handful of broad beans, the last remnants of their meagre food stores. After wounding the pigeon, they let him fly to the pirate camp, where he fell to the ground, exhausted. The Saracens noticed that the bird's stomach was swollen, and deduced that the besieged town still had plenty of food supplies. The trick worked. The pirates, weary of their long battle, set sail again.
But danger wasn't only lurking in the sea. Due to its position, Posada has long been fought over, and since the time of the Judicates, Fava Castle has had many changes of tenant. Despite centuries of battles and conquests, the fortress still has its tower, as well as some underground cisterns and part of the walls, which today welcome tourists eager to delve into the castle's history and admire the picturesque views.
