The toponym Gairo, deriving from the Greek words “ga” “roa” “land that flows”, is a reminder of the precarious hydro-geological condition affecting part of its territory. The first official mention of the name is in a document of 1217, Domusnoas, “the new houses”, in the adjoining flatland of the Pelau river.

In 1951, devastating torrential rains triggered a landslide which imposed the transfer of Gairo to the present site. In the territory, the domus de janas of Scalarrana are testimonies of the pre-Nuragic era (2500-800 B.C.), whereas the villages Is Tostoinus and Perdu Isu date back to the Nuragic Period (1800-230 B.C.). Is Tostoinus was a village of remarkable size, as more than 40 structures are accounted for between nuraghi and huts, besides, a giant’s tomb located nearby; Perdu Isu consist of some 11 nuraghi and huts. Other important nuraghi are Taccu Addai, Genna ‘e Didu and the fairly unusual Su Serbissi, with a grotto underneath connected by a passage dug  into the rock.

In the mountains there is a wealth of archaeological and naturalistic itineraries that unwind through unspoilt forests rich in wildlife. For example, from Taquisara one can reach the Genna Orruali valley and lake to visit an archaeological site and the area of the limestone buttes, including the natural monument of Perda Liana. The latter is accessible either from Gairo-Taquisara or the SS 198 (driving as far as the Casa Cantoniera of Sarceri). For free-climbing enthusiasts Perda Liana has now been fitted with the appropriate gear.

Enchanting, unspoiled beaches with crystalline waters among the cleanest in Europe: from Baccu ‘e Praidas, to Marina di Gairo, Su Sirboni, Cala ‘e Luas and Coccorroci.