Visit to the Museum of Mediterranean Masks in Mamoiada

In Mamoiada, in the heart of Barbagia, the Museum of Mediterranean Masks tells the story of the traditional Sardinian Carnival and its links with masks from all over Europe. It’s the perfect place to find out who the Mamuthones and Issohadores are before seeing them parade, or instead of it.

What you’ll see

At the center are the masks of Barbagia: the Mamuthones and Issohadores of Mamoiada, the Boes and Merdules of Ottana and Sos Thurpos of Orotelli. Alongside them are the traditions of Friuli, South Tyrol, Basilicata, Calabria, Greece, Croatia, Slovenia, Spain, Belgium, Bulgaria, Portugal and Ukraine.

Multivision, interactive audio guides, a Mamuthone mask fitted with sensors and the OCULUS virtual reality headset take visitors right into the parade and the dressing ritual, and give a close-up look at how the wooden mask is handcrafted.

Opening hours and tickets

The museum is open Wednesday to Monday, 10 am to 6 pm (last entry at 5:30 pm; closed on Tuesdays). Full ticket €9, reduced €7 (under 18, over 70, groups of at least 15 people), family ticket €18 for two people; the multimedia tour costs €3 extra. Free entry for children under 5. Guided tours in Italian, English, French and Spanish.

Prices and opening hours may change: always check with the museum before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Is the museum suitable for children?

Yes: masks, cowbells, videos and virtual reality are a big hit with little ones too, and entry is free for children under 5.

When can you see the Mamuthones live?

Their main appearances are on January 17, for the feast of Sant’Antonio Abate, and on Carnival Sunday and Tuesday. The rest of the year, the museum is the best way to get to know them.