Discover Ortueri, a charming town nestled in the province of Nuoro, with a population of 1135 inhabitants. Located in the renowned Barbagia del Mandrolisai, this enchanting place boasts breathtaking landscapes characterized by vineyards and lush forests of cork oaks and holm oaks.
Ortueri is famous for its artisanal tradition linked to cork, reflected in unique and precious artifacts. Local skilled craftsmen create original works that stand out for their craftsmanship, as well as for the weaving of orbace used for traditional Sardinian clothing.
This area has an ancient history dating back to the Nuragic era with the presence of nuraghes on the territory. Subsequently, people settled in the locations of Travi and Alas Ruinas, which were Roman colonies in the past. Numerous remains from the Roman era are still visible in the territory, such as a stone with a funerary inscription in the Pedra Litterada area.
The current medieval village is part of the curatorship of Mandrolisai in the judicature of Arborea. After the Aragonese rule following the fall of the judicature and the Marquisate of Oristano, Ortueri was included in the Incontrada del Mandrolisai.
- The parish church of San Nicolò, with its majestic bell tower standing 38 meters high dating back to the 18th-19th centuries, is a focal point in the heart of the village.
- Celebrations in honor of patron Saint Nicolò are held on December 6th with traditional processions and characteristic Sardinian dances.
- Other important religious events include celebrations for Saint Nicholas of Bari in May, Madonna Addolorata feast in September, and Santa Maria feast also in September.
Ortueri boasts fascinating archaeological sites dating back to Roman times. Places like Prani Plain and Laccos feature sarcophagi with inscriptions dedicated to Mani Gods, while Pedra Litterada area preserves remains of an ancient necropolis.
Also noteworthy is the natural area around the rugged Pedrarba point and Mui Muscas park with its lush cork oak groves. Here you can freely spot Sardinian donkeys amidst a stunning natural setting.
In recent years, there has been a demographic increase due to non-permanent migratory flows from northern Italy. This phenomenon could be mainly attributed to the tertiary services sector that has always characterized this picturesque region of Mandrolisai.
The Sardinian dialect spoken in Ortueri is related to Limba de mesania.
“
