What is that ?
In 1996 The City Council of Oliena organized an event called ‘Cortes apertas’ or ‘Open courts’: The historic homes of the town open their backyards to a gastronomic and artistic journey. Straight away the idea and its set up seemed to be pretty successful.
The project ‘Heart of Sardinia’ was created in 1997 and one of its activities is the ‘Cortes apertas’, which continues to be successful in different towns. In 2001, some city councils and the Chamber of Commerce decided to start a joint project, which would allow the opportunity for other towns to join the group.
This is how the Autunno in Barbagia name was born, a promotional window to showcase Sardinia hinterland, careful keeper of the knowledge and tastes of undisputed value, aiming to promote the excellent products and tangible and intangible traditions, of the people living there. In this window become an opportunity for experiential buying: seeing how cheese is produced, tasting it and then buying it. It’s something everyone really likes. The Chamber of Commerce and its Azienda Speciale have always taken care of the coordination and management of the group, which brings together 27 to 28 towns each year, while the organisation of each event is run by the City Council Administrator.
What to expect from the event
The event is spread throughout the region, and places are near each other, so max 1 hr by car you can reach a place where the event is happening. It is cool that this will allow you to know the surrounds. There are 33 cities join the event and for 4 months every weekend you can find a city that holding an event.
In every city you go you might find:
1. Artistic Exhibitions: Art takes center stage during Autunno in Barbagia. The region’s talented artists, sculptors, and craftsmen open their studios and workshops to the public, offering a glimpse into their creative process. Visitors can witness the intricate details of traditional Sardinian art, from vibrant murals depicting local folklore to exquisite handcrafted ceramics.
2. Gastronomic Delights: No celebration in Sardinia is complete without a feast for the senses. Autunno in Barbagia is a culinary delight, featuring a plethora of local dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. Traditional Sardinian specialties, such as malloreddus pasta with wild boar sauce and seadas (deep-fried pastries filled with cheese and drizzled with honey), tempt the taste buds, making this festival a haven for food enthusiasts.
3. Folklore and Traditions: Immerse yourself in the rich folklore and traditions that have been passed down through generations. During Autunno in Barbagia, villages come alive with traditional music, dance, and colorful processions. Witness locals adorned in traditional costumes, parading through the cobbled streets, and take part in age-old rituals that connect the past with the present.
4. Nature Walks and Outdoor Activities: For those who appreciate the great outdoors, Autunno in Barbagia offers a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty. Guided nature walks through the chestnut groves and rugged terrain provide breathtaking views of the autumn landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography, capturing the essence of Barbagia in its autumnal glory.
Official website
https://www.cuoredellasardegna.it/autunnoinbarbagia/it/index.html
