Pastoralism
Pastoralism - Daniela Spoto 2023, © CCIAA NU

Pastoralism

In the Barbagia region, raising livestock, and sheep in particular, has ancient roots and has contributed significantly to the region’s culture and economy for centuries.

Transhumance
Transhumance - © Schohn - stock.adobe.com

Shepherds lead their flocks through mountains and pastures, following ancient transhumance routes.  During the winter months, the flocks are brought to the valleys to escape the intense cold and find better pasture. In summer, they are led up high in the mountains to escape the excessive heat.

Oliena, Paper Breeding. A shepherd milks his sheep
Oliena, Paper Breeding. A shepherd milks his sheep - © Nelly Dietzel, Archivio Ilisso

Livestock raising is closely tied to the region’s ecosystem and geography. Shepherds rely on knowledge of local resources, like wild herbs and springs, to keep their flocks well fed and hydrated.

Pecorino cheese. Su casu axridda (the 'clay' cheese), first greased with mastic oil and then capped with local clay
Pecorino cheese. Su casu axridda (the 'clay' cheese), first greased with mastic oil and then capped with local clay - © Nelly Dietzel, Archivio Ilisso

In the Barbagia region, pastoralism has a major impact on the local economy. Besides the production of milk and meat, pecorino, a sheep’s milk cheese, is one of its most famous products and appreciated across Italy and the globe.

Sheep-farming has played an important role in shaping the cultural identity of the Barbagia region, contributing to the preservation of traditions and ancient knowledge tied to raising livestock.

Goats raised in the Ogliastra countryside
Goats raised in the Ogliastra countryside - © Nelly Dietzel, Archivio Ilisso
Along the transhumance routes, the newborn lambs were placed in the saddlebag and transported on the horse. 1950s
Along the transhumance routes, the newborn lambs were placed in the saddlebag and transported on the horse. 1950s - © Marianne Sin-Pfältzer, Archivio Ilisso

However, livestock raising has been struck by many challenges in the Barbagia region in recent decades. Changes in lifestyle and urbanisation have led to a reduction in the number of shepherds and available pastureland. 

Tonara, Bottega Sulis. Cowbells of different types, 1994
Tonara, Bottega Sulis. Cowbells of different types, 1994 - © Archivio Ilisso

Moreover, competition from industrial products and adaptation to health and safety regulations have added further challenges to the production and sale of products derived from livestock.
Despite these challenges, it remains a fundamental aspect of the region’s culture and economy.