Discover the Oristano region, Sardinia

Holiday Sardinia – Oristano

Oristano is a sparsely populated province known for its beautiful archaeological sites, nature, and beaches. Oristano covers an area of approximately 3.040 km². Within this area, 167.971 inhabitants live. The largest city, which is also the capital of the province, is also named Oristano and has over 31.000 inhabitants. Besides Oristano, there are two other fairly large cities in Oristano. These cities are Terralba with 9.243 inhabitants and the medieval town of Bosa with 7.573 inhabitants.

A piece of history

During the time of the Phoenicians, Sardinia was an enormously important trading post. The Phoenicians, who originated from the area that is now Lebanon, traded in the Mediterranean. Due to its location relative to neighboring countries, Sardinia was very important for the import and export of trade. To this day, many archaeological sites can still be found with remains from the Phoenician era. However, this changed in 238 BC when the Romans took over Sardinia. Around 1000 AD, people moved inland on a whim. A city formed on the banks of the Tirso River, which would later be called Oristano and, in 1974, even become the capital of the province of the same name.

Art and culture in Oristano

Traditionally, Carnival is celebrated every year in February in Sardinia. There are four Carnival events on the island that you should not miss. Two of these events take place in the province of Oristano. In Oristano, the Sartiglia event is organized every year during Carnival. Since the city's inception in the 16th century, this has been one of the highlights of Carnival in Sardinia. Originally, the Spaniards conceived this event, and its organization was outsourced to the various guilds in the city. This is still reflected in the contemporary organization of the event. The Sartiglia spans two days; one day is organized by the carpenters' guild and the other by the farmers' guild. On these days, jousting or horse racing competitions are held. All women, participants, riders, and musicians are dressed in traditional Sardinian attire. A visit to the Sartiglia is certainly worthwhile when you are in Sardinia.

Experience Oristano

Exploring the city of Oristano

The cathedral: Unusual caricature decorations can be found on the cornice of this hexagonal tower from the 12th century. The oldest Sardinian document is also located in the chapel wall.
Piazza Eleonora: The monument to Eleonora d'Arborea, dating from 1891, can be found in this square. The 14th-century town hall is also located near this square, with a large number of documents from the Aragonese period in its archives, among other things.
The Antiquarium Arborense Museum: This is the city's most famous museum. Visitors can view archaeological finds from various periods of the city's history there.
Drinks: Try one of the regional wines from the area. Such as the Vernaccia, a strong white wine, or try the Monica or the Nuraghus if you prefer a red wine.

On the road in the province of Oristano

Roman Baths of Fordongianus: Visit the remains of this natural hot spring from the Roman era.
Salt lakes on the Sinis Peninsula: Flamingos, among other birds, can be spotted here.
Tharros: At this archaeological site, remains of Roman buildings can be found, including an ancient Roman temple.
Bosa: This medieval town is dominated by Malaspina Castle, which overlooks the city. The tall, pastel-colored houses color the streetscape of Bosa's historic center.

Watch a video about Bosa

View all the gems in Oristano