The Barbagia is a vast territory that encompasses the slopes of the Gennargentu, the massive mountain range at the centre of the island, and the lower peaks that surround it.
The area is composed of various historical regions: the Barbagia of Belvì, of Bitti (the northernmost area), of Nuoro, Ollolai and of Seulo (the southernmost), as well as the area of the Mandrolisai, west of Gennargentu.
At Orgosolo you can go to the Montes Forest and enjoy gorgeous views of the top of Mount Novu Santu Juvanne. The lovely Nuraghe Mereu is built with white calcareous rock, and the impressive Gorropu Canyon, with 450m high walls, is home of the royal eagle.
At Oliena you’ll find the Su Gologone springs, the Valle di Lanaittu, where the island’s oldest human remains have come to light, and the village of Tiscali, where, legend has it, the last Sardinians sought refuge from invading conquerors.
The picturesque historic centres of the small towns, have granite houses, coortes and the overhanging vines that line the narrow streets. At Orgosolo the streets seem to talk to you via the murales, wall paintings that tell of life, culture and local politics.
The Museum of the Maschere del Mediterraneo in Mamoiada houses costumes of the carnival tradition, whose origins reach back to pagan fertility rites. Sheepskins, cow bells and masks depicting animal-like snouts and deformed faces symbolise the eternal battle between good and evil, life and death, the conqueror and the conquered. The most famous costumes are the Mamuthones of Mamoiada, the Thurpos at Orotelli and the Merdules of Ottana.
Another local tradition is Tenores chant-like singing, which has earned a well-deserved place on the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage list. Its origins date back to time immemorial, when shepherds far from home in winter would gather around a fire and sing. You can listen to historic renditions at the Museo multimediale del Canto a Tenores in Bitti.
The Barbagia is famous for the internationally renowned cannonau wines made at Mamoiada, Oliena and Dorgali. Gavoi is home of the famous Fiore Sardo cheese.
Fondazione Sardegna Film Commission
Via Malta 63 — 09124 Cagliari
Phone: +39 070 2041961
Email: filmcommission@regione.sardegna.it
