Scano di Montiferro

Discover Scano di Montiferro: a charming village in Sardinia

Scano di Montiferro, also known as Iscanu, is a town in the province of Oristano, located in the subregion of Montiferru, in Sardinia. With its 1412 inhabitants, this charming village offers a true exploration of the traditions and culture of the region. In this article, we will talk about the natural and cultural wonders of Scano, in addition to its history.

Physical geography

Scano di Montiferro is located at the foot of the beautiful Montiferru mountains, 385 meters above sea level, and is surrounded by the territory of the Montiferru natural protected area. With mountains as its background and proximity to the sea, Scano offers a humid temperate climate and an unforgettable landscape experience. Among the highlights of the territory, there are Monte Sa Patada, with its 948 meters above sea level, and the Promontorio di Monte Ruinas.

Scano di Montiferro: between nature, history and art in Sardinia.

Hydrography

Moreover, Scano is well-supplied with water, thanks to the presence of many fountains and springs, including the Sant’Antioco Springs, which provide drinking water to many nearby villages. These springs are among the largest in Sardinia and offer a unique natural experience. Cosmically, it is also crossed by numerous watercourses, such as the Canale 'e Panne Manca, the Riu 'e Puba, the Riu 'e Salighes, the Riu 'e Tuvu, the Riu 'e Tusio, the Riu 'e Frida, the Rioro, the Fissula and the Maramadau.

History

The history of Scano di Montiferro can be traced back to the Nuragic and Roman period. In the Middle Ages, it was part of the Giudicato di Torres and the territory housed a monastery founded by the Camaldolesi. In the fifteenth century, it passed under the Giudicato di Arborea, until the Aragonese conquest of Sardinia, which was followed by the subjugation of Scano to the Aragonese. Throughout history, the town has suffered from various epidemics and wars, which have led to the loss of inhabitants of the territory, such as in the case of the medieval settlements of San Leonardo de Siete Fuentes and Lucentina.

Monuments and places of interest

Scano di Montiferro is a treasure trove of monuments and places of interest for architecture and history enthusiasts. Among the most important examples, we find the Parish Church of San Pietro Apostolo, the Oratory of the Rosary, the Oratory of the Souls, the Oratory of San Nicolò and numerous rural churches such as the Church of San Giorgio, the Church of Sant'Antioco di Sulcis, the Church of Santa Barbara, the Church of Santa Croce, the Church of Santa Vittoria, and the Church of Pedras doladas.

Church of Sant'Antioco

The rural church of Sant'Antioco deserves a special mention. Located about 6 km from the town, this church is known in the region as one of the most important examples of Romanesque architecture. Built in the twelfth century, the church contains a marble portal adorned with human and animal figures. Inside, it is possible to admire the frescoes dating back to the '400-'500s, as well as the tomb of Sant'Antioco and other elements of Byzantine origin.

Scano di Montiferro is a territory that offers an extraordinary panoramic view, in addition to an extraordinary history and culture. Thanks to its proximity to the mountains and the sea, Scano offers a unique experience in a spectacular and privileged location.

Irene Mariani
Wrote by Irene Mariani
Updated Thursday, Mar 31, 2022