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History & Fun Facts

The Secrets
of Barisardo

4 curiosities and stories

01

The Torre di Barì

Built by the Spanish in the 16th century as part of Sardinia's coastal defence system, the Torre di Barì is one of the most recognisable monuments in Ogliastra. Constructed in local granite on a rocky spur that drops sheer to the sea, the tower's role was to signal the raids of Barbary pirates to neighbouring towers by lighting fires. Today, perfectly preserved and open to visitors, it offers a breathtaking view of the Ogliastra coast: to the north, wild cliffs; to the south, long sandy beaches. At sunset, the dark silhouette of the tower against the red sky is a photographic spectacle of rare intensity.

02

The Lido di Orrì and the long beaches

The Lido di Orrì — which stretches for over three kilometres between Barisardo and the municipal boundary of Tortolì — is one of the longest and best-equipped beaches in Ogliastra. The sand is golden and fine, the sea shallow for tens of metres, ideal for families with children. Alongside the lido there are beach clubs, pedalo and canoe rentals, and several kiosks. The beach is easily reached by car or by the summer shuttle service. Less crowded but equally beautiful is the Spiaggia della Torre, accessible on foot via a coastal path that starts right at the Torre di Barì.

03

Wine production: the Ogliastra wines of Barisardo

The territory of Barisardo falls within the production zone of Cannonau di Sardegna DOC, the celebrated Sardinian red wine considered one of the richest in resveratrol in the world. The vineyards climb the granite hills behind the town, buffeted by the sea wind, and produce grapes with an extraordinary aromatic concentration. Some local wineries, family-run operations, also produce small quantities of Vermentino and Nuragus. The grape harvest, between the end of August and September, is still a collective event on some estates. Summer festivals and celebrations are often an opportunity to taste these wines accompanied by typical dishes from the Ogliastra coastal cuisine.

04

The Feast of San Leonardo

On 6 November, the feast day of San Leonardo, Barisardo celebrates its patron saint with a festival that blends religious devotion and popular conviviality. The procession in traditional dress winds through the streets of the town to liturgical chants in the Sardinian language; the solemn mass is followed by an afternoon of celebrations in the square with folk music, stalls selling local produce, and traditional dances. The figure of San Leonardo is particularly venerated in Ogliastra as the protector of farmers and prisoners: a mix of humility and resilience that reflects the character of these communities. In the evening, fireworks light up the coast.

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