Ovodda
Ovodda: a charming municipality in the heart of Sardinia
Ovodda is a small municipality located in the heart of Sardinia, south of the province capital Nuoro. The town, which takes its name from the Sardinian language, has a population of about 1519 inhabitants and is part of the historical-geographical division of Barbagia di Ollolai and Bacino Imbrifo Montano (BIM) del Taloro. The municipal territory has an area of 42 square kilometers and borders the municipalities of Gavoi, Fonni, Desulo, Tiana, Teti, and Ollolai.
Physical geography
Ovodda is situated at the foot of Mount Orohòle, whose summit is called Punta Concósu (height 1,098 meters above sea level), on the western slope of the Gennargentu massif, the main mountain range on the island. The town is crossed by the rivers Tino and Talòro, which converge into the artificial lake of Cucchinadòrza (capacity of 20 million m3, maximum elevation of 348 meters above sea level) whose dam was built between 1958-1960. The lake constitutes the second reservoir of a system composed of the upstream lake of Gúsana (60 million m3 at maximum level of 642.5 meters above sea level), and the downstream lake of Benzòne (1.08 million m3), with a total of 3 jumps (pipes), 3 hydroelectric power plants, and 2 pumping stations, and which converges downstream with the lake Omodeo which is also connected to the river Tirso.
History
The toponym of Ovodda (derived from the original "Ofòlla", "Ofholla", and "Ovolla") has an obscure origin, likely related to the series of local names in the Protosardinian or Latin languages.
The area was inhabited since the Neolithic era, the pre-Nuragic Sardinia, and the Nuragic Sardinia, as testified by the presence on the territory of some menhirs or "Predas fhittas", "Tombs of giants", numerous domus de janas and Nuraghe with surrounding remains of settlements (1800 - 600 B.C.).
In the Middle Ages, it belonged to the giudicato of Arborea and was part of the curatoria of Barbagia di Ollolai. After the fall of the giudicato (1420), it passed under the Aragonese dominion and became a fief.
This in 1604 was incorporated into the duchy of Mandas, which belonged first to the feudatories Maza and then to the Tellez-Giron d'Alcantara, to whom it was redeemed in 1839 with the suppression of the feudal system promoted by the Casa Savoia.
Part of its current municipal territory belonged to the village of Oleri, located between Ovodda and Gavoi near the present rural church of San Pietro.
The beauty of Ovodda
Ovodda is a town rich in natural beauties and landscapes that entice visitors to explore it. The Mount Orohòle, which overlooks the town, represents an essential destination for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. Along its slopes, in fact, are paths that lead to Punta Concósu, the highest peak, from which you can admire a stunning view of Barbagia.
In addition to the unspoiled nature, Ovodda offers numerous monuments of historical and cultural interest. In the historic center of the town, you can find the Church of San Sebastiano, dating back to the 18th century, with a bell tower in Catalan Gothic style. Also in the historic center, there is the Zapata Palace, a noble residence built in the 17th century in Baroque style.
But the true symbol of Ovodda is represented by the famous festival of "Maialetto alla brace", which takes place every year in August. During the festival, the town comes alive with visitors from all over Sardinia, who gather to taste the famous roasted piglet, accompanied by local typical products such as carasau bread, pecorino cheese, and vernaccia wine.
Living in Ovodda
Ovodda is a peaceful and welcoming town, where you can still breathe the authentic atmosphere of the truest Sardinia. Most of the residents live from agriculture and pastoralism, maintaining traditions from the past. In addition to the festival of the roasted piglet, the town offers numerous other events, such as the feast of San Sebastiano, the Ovoddese Carnival, and the "Corsa degli Scalzi", a traditional foot race held every year in spring.
The town has all the necessary services, including a post office, a supermarket, a pharmacy, a bar, a pizzeria, and several restaurants. Moreover, the proximity to the capital of Nuoro allows access to additional services and facilities, such as hospitals, sports and cultural centers, universities, and museums.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Ovodda is a small municipality that enchants visitors with its mountains' beauty, the purity of its waters, and the authenticity of its people. Visiting this town means immersing yourself in the most authentic Sardinia, made of traditions, history, and culture. If you are looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate, away from the frenzy of the city, Ovodda is the perfect place for you.
