Rectangular in shape, extended, in the direction of the meridians, the island is formed in prevalance of granitic and sedimentary rocks. In the south-westerly sector, between the Gennargentu and the riliefs of the Iglesiente, stretches the Campidano alluvial plain. The very indented coast, rich in coves, soft sandy shores and caves are faced by numerous island. Of particular interest are the inland areas which show an unpolluted nature. The economy of the island is traditionally based on breeding and on the extractive industry and tourism is in expansion.
Handicrafts have an antique tradition on the island and are still today widely practised.
Within the vast range of its products the rugs, tapestries, blankets, embroidery, baskets, carved wood and pieces of pottery are particularly esteemed. The nature, the position of the island, the small number of coastal resorts in comparison to the towns inland, the historic events have for long periods favoured the isolation of the Sardinian populations permitting the autonomous development of their lives and reducing to a minimum the external influences. An historic continuity exists in the landscape, in the uses and customs of the people.