Shopping and craft

An excursion through the villages of Sardinia East Land is an exciting and rich pursuit of knowledge amidst a land steeped in expertise rooted in ancient practices, all of which is likely to impact us with a modern twist. The numerous artisans of the province of Nuoro, are masters who impart age-old skills in their workshops hidden in the maze of narrow alleys of these historic villages. They are true artists, masters at blending local, Mediterranean, and international traditions. 

Experiencing the daily routine in an artisanal studio is a fascinating opportunity, a dimension in which one finds objects with soul and where the careful process of creating pieces is honored, as time is the raw material of each creation.

You will watch with amazement  as they work their materials to create handicrafts that will tell stories, and decorate public and private spaces; they are a delight for both the eyes and spirit.

What was born out of to the daily needs of early Sardinian civilization has, over the centuries, evolved into refined, artistic craftsmanship. 

With the passing of time and the advent of lighter and more practical materials, these local artists began honing their skills and creating signature styles of what once were considered simple tools which, in turn, became prized artisanal products representative of each individual village. 

Beginning with the production of textiles in which the cloth masters of the Nuorese area became known for their excellence in moleskin and velvet production, which can be admired in Orani, Orune, and Lula. 

Stunning carpets, Sa Burra is the design style of the traditional carpet produced in both Sarule and Gadoni. Originally this handcraft was used as a blanket on cold winter nights, but later was put to use as a decorative rug. The production processes are different, a vertical frame is used in Sarule, and horizontal in Gadoni. The incredibly mystifying and contemporary graphic patterns have been handed down for centuries. 

In Orgosolo one will find the only workshop in Italy where the full life cycle of the silkworm is carried out and from which one gets the silk thread for su lionzu, the typical head scarf worn by women in traditional dress. 

The expert mask makers of Mamoiada and Ottana will share with you the art of wood carving. You will be in awe of the craft of local woodworkers and the incredibly straight lines and originality of the patterns they carve into elegant chests that were once used to store a bride’s trousseau. 

In Doragli, one of the most famous villages for handicrafts, you will find masters of the art of filigree who make exquisite jewelry representing traditional Sardinian beliefs and also creations that are completely innovative.

Leather goods, which were once very practical for work in the fields, today are beautiful creations to see and to carry or wear as belts, backpacks, and bags.

The long-established trades of metalwork and pottery are considered laboratories for experimentation and design, where timeless pieces are made to decorate modern homes around the world.

One will also find fragrant shops. Some where typical products of the island’s gastronomy are made and sold, and others that process mediterranean herbs to be used in health products and cosmetics.