La Sartiglia di Oristano
Gymkhana on Carnival Sunday and Tuesday, a tradition dating back to the 16th century and attracting visitors from all over Sardinia. The events begin with the kitting out of the “Su Componidori”, the master-at-arms. In a breakneck charge, the master and his retainers attempt to skewer the stars hung along the street with their rapiers. The number of collected stars is said to foretell the success of the coming harvest.
Cabras and its fishermen
The lagoon at Cabras is one of the most abundant in fish in Italy. The fishermen use – less frequently these days – boats woven from reed (“Is fassonis”). However, Cabras is worth a visit not just because of its fish restaurants: in the early morning light of the first Sunday in September, young men run barefoot to the church of San Salvatore six kilometres away to bring the Statue of the Redeemer to Cabras.
Ancient Tharros
Harbour and trading colony of the Phoenicians, established between the 8th and 11th century BC, destroyed by the Saracens. Archaeological excavations brought the ruins of the city centre to light in the 1960s – with pathways of dark basalt, the temple of Demetra, Punic-Roman houses and shops. The former port of Tharros is almost completely under water today. On the way to Tharros is the 5th century Byzantine church of San Giovanni di Sinis, the oldest Christian monument on the island.
The Monte Ferru mountain range
Sea or mountains – in Sardinia you don’t have to settle for one or the other. Peaks with a height of over 3,000 feet, picturesque towns like Cuglieri with its enormous baroque church, mineral water sources, shady forests and fabulous picnic places make the Monte Ferru mountain range a refreshing retreat from the summer heat and a popular hiking area in any other season.
Cagliari, the island capital
Though it’s over an hour away by car, Cagliari simply has to be seen – a pulsating city with attractive shopping streets, museums and monuments. From the Terrazza Umberto I, the bastion of San Remy, you have a wonderful view of the city. At night, the Via Roma and the Largo Carlo Felice vibrate with energy. Cagliari, older than Rome, irresistible to all.
