At the centre of Sardegna East Land, the Barbagia is the heart of the island. This territory occupies the slopes of the Gennargentu mountain massif and the surrounding minor elevations (which comprise a large part of the National Park of the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu area) made up of schist, limestone and granite, and being one of the geologically oldest formations in Europe. With limited human presence, the area is left to the unspoiled nature, woods and waterways for experiences with a unique charm. Indeed, Barbagia has one of the lowest population densities in Europe, a characteristic which – along with the ruggedness of the territory – has allowed the area to preserve its cultural and natural treasures.
This is one of the few regions in Sardinia where the Sardinian language and its inland varieties are still spoken daily, within the community generally and not just at home. The name Barbaria was coined by the Romans, hailing from the fact that Sardinians who resisted the conquests of the Carthaginians and Romans took refuge here. For this reason, the area has historically been identified with the constant Sardinian resistance, having stood up to the invaders coming from the sea. This historic region is embellished with quaint villages bearing a strong sense of community. Upon arrival, you are surrounded by majestic unspoiled nature where esteemed craftsmanship and thousand-year-old traditions have been handed down. The agricultural-pastoral economy favoured by the presence of green and aromatic pastures that facilitate the production of delicious cheeses such as Fiore Sardo (to which a museum is dedicated in the picturesque village of Gavoi), renders Barbagia an area of great interest for foodies and lovers of authentic taste experiences. This kaleidoscope of colours and sounds unites the histories of some of the most famous and unique towns in Sardinia with lesser-known settlements immersed in a nature that is challenging yet offers so much to discover.
From 1,000 metres above sea level in Fonni on the Gennargentu mountains is the highest town in Sardinia and the only ski resort on the island, bearing walls that speak through their murals, as veritable works of art, lining the pathways of Orgosolo overlooking the Supramonte mountain range. Barbagia is the Cannonau from the Mamoiada municipality, the masks of its Carnival and those of Ottana, the protagonist of a debated modernity. There is no shortage of a mining past, which can still be experienced in the small village of Gadoni and with its Raminosa Fountain. Hailing from Barbagia are the mysterious geometries of Sa Burra, the rugs of Sarule and the colourful traditional garments of Meana Sardo. Likewise located in Barbagia is the picturesque village of Olzai, with the island’s only functioning water mill and the still-active fulling mill of Tiana, the village that is also home to the orbace fabric.
A paradise for those who love to go on walks, in Ovodda it is possible to savour the atmosphere of an alpine village such as Aritzo, the land of chestnut groves and the snow trade. There are also breath-taking landscapes in Belvì, surrounded by woods and famed for its deserts that look like works of art. Barbagia is the legendary story of Ospitone, the shepherd king of Ollolai who led the Christianisation of the area and of the important and fascinating archaeological sites that revealed the history of the ancient nuragics to the world, such as the jewels of Teti that enthusiasts cannot miss. Rocks in the strangest of shapes surprise visitors to the quaint village of Austis whilst in Lodine, you can treat yourself to hours of relaxation by going for a paddle on Lake of Gusana. And yet this is all but a taste, given that Barbagia must be experienced in person to truly savour the thousand nuances of Sardinia that this area preserves.
PIANO STRAORDINARIO DI RILANCIO DEL NUORESE - POR FESR SARDEGNA 2014-2020
AZIONE 6.8.3. - Progetto VISIT NUORESE
