Orgosolo

The Village of Murals and Barbaricinian Traditions

In the heart of the Barbagia region, Orgosolo is a unique destination in Sardinia, internationally renowned for its colorful murals that adorn the village’s houses and streets. These paintings offer a glimpse into Sardinian culture, with a special focus on social and political history, turning Orgosolo into an open-air museum.

The murals of Orgosolo narrate the daily life, traditions, and struggles of the Barbaricinian people, making the village a symbol of resilience and cultural pride. With deep roots and a strong connection to pastoral culture, Orgosolo is also the home of canto a tenore, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Exploring Orgosolo means immersing yourself in authentic Sardinia, where art and traditions blend into a truly unique setting.

The History of Orgosolo: Between Murals and Social Struggles

The history of Orgosolo is deeply intertwined with the social context of Sardinia and the phenomenon of banditry, which brought the village into the spotlight in the late 19th century. This theme was famously depicted in the film Banditi a Orgosolo by director Vittorio De Seta, portraying the shepherds’ fight against land expropriation.

In the 20th century, Orgosolo became a hub of artistic expression and cultural activity, with murals emerging as a powerful medium to tell the stories and voice the demands of the Sardinian people. Initially born as a tool of protest, these murals have evolved over time and now stand as a symbol of Orgosolo's history and culture, addressing themes such as social justice, political struggles, pastoral traditions, and the challenges of modernity.

The Murals of Orgosolo: A Story Painted on the Walls

Orgosolo is home to hundreds of murals that brighten its streets and squares, transforming the village into an open-air work of art. During the 1960s and 1970s, the town experienced a period of intense artistic activity, leading to the creation of collective murals inspired by the political and social struggles of the time.

These paintings depict scenes of daily life, from women engaged in domestic chores to men on horseback and shepherds, alongside representations of cultural and historical icons. Walking through the streets of Orgosolo, each mural tells a story, offering visitors a glimpse into the character and traditions of the Barbaricinian people and immersing them in a timeless artistic and cultural journey.

The Supramonte of Orgosolo: Wild Nature and Majestic Landscapes

Orgosolo lies at the foothills of the Supramonte, a limestone plateau system spanning the territories of Oliena, Urzulei, Dorgali, and Baunei. This area, renowned for its rugged and captivating landscapes, features deep valleys known as codule that wind their way down to the sea, creating a truly unique and untamed terrain.

The Supramonte is largely uninhabited, with only a few shepherds’ huts, called cuiles, serving as reminders of the traditional way of life in the region. In the Orgosolo area, you’ll find Monte Fumai, one of the highest peaks, while in Oliena, Monte Corrasi rises to 1,463 meters and is often referred to as “the Sardinian Dolomites” due to its spectacular formation.

The Supramonte offers breathtaking views and hiking trails that invite visitors to discover the local flora and fauna, providing an immersive experience in Sardinia’s unspoiled nature.

Art, Nature, and Tradition

Explore Orgosolo with Toucan Travel

With Toucan Travel, you can uncover every facet of Orgosolo, a village that embodies the most authentic essence of Sardinia. From streets adorned with murals to the towering mountains of the Supramonte, Orgosolo offers a complete experience blending art, history, and nature.

Let yourself be guided through the ancient traditions of the Barbaricinian people and the canto a tenore, explore pristine landscapes, and immerse yourself in Sardinian culture on a journey that takes you back in time to discover the deep roots of this extraordinary island.