Nuoro
Let's discover Nuoro together
Nuoro is a charming city located in the heart of Sardinia. With a population of about 33,000 inhabitants, it has been the capital of the province of Nuoro since 1927. The city extends over a granite plateau at about 554 meters above sea level, at the foot of Mount Ortobene.
Territory
The territory is surrounded by mountains and hills, such as Mount Gurtei and the hill of Sant'Onofrio. The city boasts a beautiful view of the Cedrino valley and the surrounding mountains. The city's geographical location favors a temperate Mediterranean climate with moderately hot summers and cool winters.
Climate
The climate of Nuoro is dominated by the mistral, a wind that blows from the west. Despite the temperate climate, the city can experience sudden drops in temperature in winter, when cold waves arrive from the northeast. The average annual temperature ranges from 13 to 15 degrees Celsius, but the city can reach extreme temperatures such as -10.5 degrees Celsius in 1999.
Origins of the name
The name Nuoro derives from the medieval "Nuor", which in turn derives from the older "Nugor". According to one theory, the name would derive from an "oriental voice" meaning "house", "light" or "fire". According to other interpretations, the name would derive from the root of the Paleo-Sardinian word "nur", which means "nuraghe".
It is interesting to note that the correct pronunciation of the name is "Nùoro", even though many people outside Sardinia pronounce it "Nuòro". This latter pronunciation is due to the rarity in the Italian language of a sequence "-ùo-" compared to the much more common diphthong "-uò-".
History
Origins
Nuoro has very ancient origins, dating back to the prehistoric period. The city was already inhabited during the Neolithic and Nuragic period, as evidenced by the numerous archaeological traces present in the area.
Medieval period
The city began to develop during the medieval period, when it became an important center of the judicial jurisdiction of Gallura. In the 13th century, the city passed under the control of the judges of Arborea, who governed it until the Aragonese conquest in 1410.
Modern era
With the arrival of the Catalans, Nuoro became the seat of an important fief, reaching a considerable political and economic importance. Over the centuries, the city became an important center of residence for the aristocrats of the area.
Contemporary age
With the unification of Italy, Nuoro became part of the new Italian state. During the 20th century, the city underwent a considerable urban transformation, thanks to the construction of new public and residential buildings. Today, Nuoro is a city rich in history and culture, which attracts many visitors every year.
Monuments and places of interest
Cathedral of Santa Maria della Neve
The Cathedral of Santa Maria della Neve is one of the most important monuments in Nuoro. Built in the 18th century in the Baroque style, the cathedral has been renovated several times over the years. Inside the cathedral, it is possible to admire numerous works of art, including paintings, statues and sacred furnishings.
Mount Ortobene
Mount Ortobene is one of the highest mountains in Sardinia, with a height of 955 meters. The mountain is an important tourist attraction, thanks to the presence of numerous walks and excursions within the natural park. From the top of the mountain, it is possible to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Nuoro and the surrounding countryside.
Deleddiano Museum
The Deleddiano Museum is dedicated to the Sardinian writer Grazia Deledda, Nobel Prize in Literature in 1926. The museum houses a vast collection of works of art, manuscripts and objects related to the life and work of the writer. It is an ideal place for those who want to deepen Sardinian culture and tradition.
Prefecture Palace
The Prefecture Palace is a beautiful historic building built in the 19th century in the neoclassical style. Today it houses the headquarters of the prefecture of Nuoro and some other administrative institutions. The palace has recently been restored and represents an important testimony of neoclassical architecture in Sardinia.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Nuoro is a city that offers many attractions to visitors, from the splendid view of the surrounding mountains to the cultural and historical richness. Thanks to its geographical location and mild climate, it is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy a vacation of nature and culture. If you are looking for a different destination than usual, Nuoro is definitely the right choice.
