Question 1: Porto Flavia is on the island of Sardinia. Where’s that?
- Italy
- France
- Greece
Answer: Italy
Fact: Built into a cliff on Sardinia’s southwestern coast, Porto Flavia transformed ore transportation when it was completed in 1924. Its network of tunnels and reservoirs enabled lead, zinc, and other metals to be loaded directly onto cargo ships, drastically cutting transport time and costs. This innovation replaced the slow, labor-intensive loading methods previously used, greatly improving export efficiency. Though no longer in operation, Porto Flavia remains a striking industrial landmark that reflects Sardinia’s rich mining heritage.
Question 2: What type of rock is Porto Flavia built into?
- Granite
- Limestone
- Sandstone
Answer: Limestone
Fact: Carved into the limestone cliffs of Sardinia in 1924, Porto Flavia revolutionized mining exports. Limestone’s durability and ease of carving made it ideal for the project—its strength allowed for the creation of deep tunnels without heavy reinforcement, and its resistance to erosion has preserved the structure for nearly a century. Designed by Italian engineer Cesare Vecelli to accelerate ore shipments, the port also carries a personal legacy: Vecelli named it after his daughter, Flavia, merging industrial ingenuity with a sentimental tribute.
Question 3: What is the capital city of Sardinia?
- Alghero
- Cagliari
- Olbia
Answer: Cagliari
Fact: Cagliari blends ancient history, coastal charm, and the energy of daily life. As Sardinia’s largest city, it retains traces of its medieval past, while its bustling port has welcomed Phoenician traders, Roman vessels, and Pisan merchants over the centuries. Poetto Beach provides a refreshing retreat, and the city itself—set between historic ruins and lively cafés—thrives with a rhythm that is both laid-back and full of life.