Things to do in Sarule

Sarule is a village in the Barbagia di Ollolai at about 630 m, at the foot of Monte Gonare, around half an hour's drive from Nuoro. On top of the mountain stands one of Sardinia's best-loved sanctuaries, a pilgrimage site for centuries, while down in the village the art of large hand-woven rugs lives on. It is ideal if you are after views, spirituality, authentic crafts and living traditions.

What to see in Sarule

The sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Gonare

Built in the early 17th century at about 1,100 m on the summit of Monte Gonare, the sanctuary is surrounded by cumbessias, small houses where pilgrims stay during the novena; part of them belongs to the parish of nearby Orani. Its origins are wrapped in legend. On clear days the summit gives views of the sea to both east and west.

Monte Gonare

Three limestone peaks rise from the grey granite: Gonare, Gonareddu and Punta Lotzori. Gonare's profile, visible from much of central Sardinia, is the village's symbol.

The weaving museum and nuraghi

In the village you can visit the Museo della tessitura Eugenio Tavolara, devoted to local rugs. The countryside holds giants' tombs, standing stones and nuraghi (Bronze Age towers) such as Incavadu, Valeri, Neunele and Durghio.

Things to do in Sarule

The climb up Gonare, on foot or by car to the sanctuary, is the highlight: a hike among rocks and woods with views across the island. Fields of centuries-old olive trees are lovely for walks and bike rides, and in the village you may meet weavers at work. Below you will find the experiences offered by local operators: pick the one for you and get to know Sarule up close.

History

The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as standing stones and nuraghi show. In the early Middle Ages it was ruled by Hospito (Ospitone), the Barbagia chieftain linked to the conversion to Christianity promoted by Pope Gregory the Great. In the age of the Giudicati Sarule belonged to the Giudicato of Torres, then passed to the Aragonese; in 1617 it joined the Marquisate of Orani and in 1839 it was freed from feudal rule.

What to eat and buy

Sarule is famous for its rugs, woven on vertical looms, large in size, with geometric patterns or motifs inspired by nature and farm life. The most typical is the burra, woven in yellow, black, red and brown wool. Take home some sheep's cheese and extra virgin olive oil from the ancient groves too. Wrought iron is also crafted locally.

Festivals and traditions

• Carnival, with the a gattu (cat) mask mentioned by Grazia Deledda in her novel Elias Portolu; at the end of the festivities su Maimone, a straw effigy linked to ancient rites against drought, is burned.
• Easter, with s'Incontru, the meeting of the statues of the risen Christ and the Virgin.
• Annunciation, 25 March, and the Coronation, last Sunday of May, at the sanctuary.
• Feast of Gonare, early September: a novena with gosos (devotional songs), Stations of the Cross up the mountain and a horse race; the priests of Sarule and Orani take turns, year by year.

Nearby

• Orani, with the Nivola Museum.
• Mamoiada and its Mamuthones masks.
• Ottana, with the Romanesque church of San Nicola and the Boes carnival.
• Olzai and Ollolai, for art and mountains.

Getting there and when to go

From Nuoro it takes about 30 minutes by car. The handiest airports are Olbia, about an hour and a half away, and Cagliari, about two hours. Spring and early autumn are perfect for climbing Gonare; in early September the feast offers the most intense experience.

FAQ

Can you drive up to the Gonare sanctuary?

A road leads close to the sanctuary; the last stretch and the mountain trails are on foot.

How long do you need for Sarule?

One day: morning on Gonare, afternoon in the village with its weaving and churches.

Is Sarule near the sea?

No, it is inland; the nearest beaches are on the east coast, more than an hour's drive away.