The volcanic plateau of Giara di Gesturi is home to Europe’s last remaining population of wild horses living in feral conditions. The Giara wild horses are recognized by their small stature, almond-shaped eyes, and dark coats. Rather than being a ancient wild species, they are descendants of horses introduced to the island during Nuragic or Phoenician times. The natural inaccessibility of the plateau, bordered by steep basalt cliffs, served as a natural sanctuary. Today, herds roam freely through cork oak woods and temporary lakes, retaining wild behaviors similar to prehistoric horses.