The “Casa sull'Albero”, “ The Treehouse” is a public ecological structure built on a majestic eucalyptus tree near the Rio Massari, beside a large rock. This fascinating construction, offering a privileged viewpoint over the surrounding plateaus, has two levels. The upper floor is reached by a steep ladder that rewards visitors with breathtaking views. Though small in size, the upper room welcomes guests into an intimate and comfortable space. At the base of the trunk, a swing and picnic tables invite visitors to pause and relax.
Italy’s first public treehouse was created here in Allai in 2010. It consisted of a covered twenty-square-meter platform, four meters above the ground, designed to allow visitors to observe the evocative course of the Massari River near the Bau Accas ford. Built entirely of wood between two majestic eucalyptus trees, the structure was conceived by Abitalbero as part of the postgraduate master’s program Ecorurality, in collaboration with the Polytechnic University and NABA of Milan, the association Paesaggi Connessi of Cagliari, the Municipality of Allai and the regional forestry agency Forestas.
The project received regional recognition, winning first prize in the “Ecorurality” competition organized by the Region of Sardinia in 2011.
Unfortunately, during the summer of 2012, an act of vandalism seriously compromised the stability of the treehouse. In response to the reckless act, the town council gathered in extraordinary session on the 3rd of July of that same year, right beneath the eucalyptus supporting the structure. Citizens and administrators condemned the act and resolved to rebuild an even more beautiful treehouse and, thanks to the commitment and collaboration of the professionals involved in the original project, they succeeded.
By the end of 2012, the second treehouse was completed and open to visitors. This innovative social and cultural initiative, made possible through the Municipality of Allai and Forestas, revived the original 2010 vision: reclaiming and enhancing a previously abandoned and degraded area. Today the structure is a welcoming landmark for visitors exploring the territory and offers a truly unique experience.
At a time when sustainable use of resources has become a central issue for Sardinia, the Treehouse stands as a concrete example of how humanity can live in harmony with nature while continuing to look toward new opportunities for growth and innovation.
