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Writer's pictureSTEFANO SALERNO

Mamoiada: Autumn in Barbagia 2024 Discover History, Traditions and Authentic Flavors

Every autumn, the heart of Sardinia lights up with colours, flavours and traditions thanks to the event "Autumn in Barbagia." Mamoiada, one of the most characteristic villages of this region, becomes an unmissable stop to discover Sardinian culture, history and food and wine in an engaging atmosphere. This year, the 2024 edition promises to be a unique opportunity to fully experience the magic of Mamoiada.




Sardinian Cloak
Traditional Mamoiada Cloak

Historical Notes of Mamoiada

Mamoiada, a town located in the heart of Barbagia, boasts an ancient and fascinating history, rooted in the agricultural and pastoral traditions of Sardinia. Famous for its iconic Mamuthones and Issohadores masks, ancestral symbols representing propitiatory and celebratory rites, Mamoiada has been a cultural gathering place for centuries. These characters, who perform during the local carnival and other important celebrations, offer a tangible connection with the most ancient origins of the community and with a folklore that has its roots in mystery and the sacred.









Autumn in Barbagia 2024 Program in Mamoiada

Friday, November 1st Program

10am Inauguration of the event with the presentation of traditional dishes Piazza Santa Croce

10am Fresh pasta making by Marianna Melevia Pasubio 17/A

11am Start of the event and opening of the stages

11am Preparation of sa sevada , a typical dessert, by Marinella Salvavia Manno 71

12.00pm Milk transformation by Andrea PisuVia Vitt. Eman.II 9

3pm Preparation of su gattò , a typical dessert, by Pasticceria Gardenia, via Garibaldi n.2

5pm Travelling performance by local accordionists


Saturday 2nd November Program

10am Opening of Stages

10am Fresh pasta making by Marianna Melevia Pasubio 17/A

10:30 am Torrone making by Giovanni Secchivia Nuoro/Via Vitt.Eman.II

11am Preparation of sa sevada , a typical dessert, by Marinella Salvaivia Manno 71

3pm Preparation of su gattò , a typical dessert, by Pasticceria Gardenia, via Garibaldi n.2

3.30pm Dressing in traditional local clothes by the Sa Mamujadina Association, Piazza Chiesa NS Loreto (in case of rain, Social Centre Hall, Via Vitt.Eman.II)

4pm Mamuthones and Issohadores parade of the Atzeni AssociationDeparture via Vitt. Eman. II/mask with arrival at the Museum of Mediterranean Masks

6:00 pm Travelling performance by the Nugoro Amada Choir


Sunday 3 November Program

10am Opening of Stages

10.30am Fresh pasta making by Marianna Melevia Pasubio 17/A

11am Preparation of sa sevada , a typical dessert, by Marinella Salvaivia Manno 71

11.30am Dressing in traditional local clothes and accordionist by the Santu Cosomo e Damiano Association, Piazza Chiesa NS Loreto (in case of rain, the Social Centre hall via Vitt.Eman.II)

3.00 pm Preparation of su gattò , a typical dessert, by Pasticceria Gardenia, via Garibaldi n.2

5pm Dancing in the square


During the event, Mamoiada will welcome visitors with a variety of cultural activities, including art exhibitions, traditional music concerts and workshops to learn local craft techniques. It will be a unique opportunity to attend performances of the Mamuthones and Issohadores and to experience Sardinian hospitality firsthand.


The Mamuthones and Issohadores: Symbols of Mamoiada

The Mamuthones and Issohadores masks are a distinctive symbol of Mamoiada and represent one of the oldest traditions in Sardinia. These characters, with their black masks and heavy cowbells, tell of propitiatory rites and the struggle between good and evil. During Autumn in Barbagia, visitors can watch the performances of the Mamuthones, a ritual dance that evokes protection and abundance for the community, performed in traditional clothes and accompanied by the rhythmic sound of cowbells.



Issohadores
Issohadores


Places to Visit in Mamoiada

In addition to events, Mamoiada offers numerous places of interest that tell its history and culture.

  • Museum of Mediterranean Masks: This unique museum houses traditional masks from Sardinia and other Mediterranean cultures, offering a comprehensive insight into the history of masks and ritual traditions.

  • Archaeological Sites and Nuraghi: Mamoiada is surrounded by Nuragic sites that date back thousands of years. These ancient monuments testify to the importance of Sardinia in the Bronze Age.

  • Church of Our Lady of Loreto: A place of worship that embodies the spirituality of the village, with typical architecture and intimate atmospheres.





Typical Products of Mamoiada

Autumn in Barbagia is also a perfect opportunity to discover the authentic flavors of Sardinia. In Mamoiada, some typical products are particularly renowned and can be tasted during the event.

  • Cannonau Wine: Mamoiada is known for producing excellent Cannonau wines, a deep red that reflects the flavors and aromas of the Sardinian land. Local wineries welcome visitors for tastings and guided tours.

  • Cured Meats and Cheeses: From Sardinian sausage to pecorino cheeses, Mamoiada offers a variety of dairy products and cured meats with a strong and authentic flavour, often prepared using traditional methods.

  • Typical Sweets: Not to be missed are the local sweets such as “Papassinos” and “Sebadas,” made with genuine ingredients and recipes handed down from generation to generation.

  • Sardinian Crafts: During the event, you can admire and purchase traditional handicrafts, such as fabrics, ceramics and knives, symbols of Sardinian craftsmanship.





Taking part in Autumn in Barbagia in Mamoiada does not just mean attending an event, but living a complete experience made of history, traditions, culture and authentic flavours. Every corner of the town, every dish and every sound tells of an ancient and precious Sardinia, which is worth discovering and preserving. Autumn in Barbagia 2024 in Mamoiada is therefore the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the pulsating heart of the island and take home an indelible memory of this land.





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