Nuorese Cultural District
Galtellì
Description
Galtellì is located on the east coast of the island, near the Gulf of Orosei and the Gennargentu National Park.
An ancient settlement inhabited since prehistoric times, it was part of the Judicate of Gallura during the Roman age. During that period, the city prospered as a diocese, enjoying a kind of ‘golden age’.
Vestiges of the prehistoric period include seven domus de janas, located in a small necropolis inside the Malicas city park.
A town rich in history, art and culture, it is also known for its link to the Nobel Prize winning author Grazia Deledda, who set her novel Reeds in the Wind there.
The city’s Parco Letterario (Literary Park) identifies the places described in the novel and the town’s general attractions, like the house of Pintor family.
Other attractions include the Romanesque church of San Pietro, built in the ninth century, and Pontes Castle, which was built in 1070 and recently restored.
The city’s historical and religious heritage is attested by its numerous churches, which are scattered throughout the town and the surrounding countryside.
One of particular historical importance is the church of the Santissimo Crocifisso, which was built in 1500 and preserves a wooden statue of Christ dating to 1300.
The Museo Etnografico di Galtellì, located in the historical residence Sa Domo 'e sos Marras, preserves and exhibits material attesting to the popular culture, traditions, everyday life and economy of the past. The museum displays finds and evidence relative to farm and pastoral life in centuries past and organises events for learning about old trades and traditions.
In addition to its cultural and historical draws, Galtellì is ideally situated for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area. It is near the stunning beaches and caves of the Gulf of Orosei and the foot of Monte Tuttavista, which has an elevation of 800 metres and is home to the natural monument Sa Petra Istampata: a vast forty-metre wall with an almost perfectly circular hole at the top.
Galtellì is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in Sardinia’s history, culture, literature and nature.
