Uras
Discovering Uras, the city between the mountains
If you want to discover a small village where history and nature blend together, you cannot miss visiting Uras, a municipality in the province of Oristano, Sardinia. With its 2,664 inhabitants, it presents itself as a peaceful place, ideal for relaxing and living in contact with nature.
Physical Geography
Territory
Uras is located in the suggestive sub-region of Campidano di Oristano, at the foot of Mount Arci. The municipality borders Marrubiu, Terralba, Morgongiori, Masullas, Mogoro, and San Nicolò d'Arcidano. Located only 23 meters above sea level, it is about 67 km northwest of Cagliari.
Origins of the name
Curious to know how the name of this city was born? The toponym "Uras" is a local designation that reflects a base "ur," "water," and the term "urium," "muddy water."
History
Although there is not much information about it, what is known is that the city dates back to the pre-nuragic period. It was built next to Mount Arci, an obsidian mine that attracted the first inhabitants of the area, who worked on this glassy stone. Over the centuries, Uras has known different civilizations and cultures, as evidenced by the finds found on site: from prehistory to the Nuragic era, from the towers of Arbu, Bentu Crobis, Serdis, Arrubiu, S'acqua de sa baira, to the nuraghes de Cuaddus, Sa Domu Beccia, Bia Moguru, Thamis, Su Corrasi, and Santu Giuanni, up to the tombs of the giants. Among the most important architectural works deserves a mention the parish church of Santa Maria Maddalena, built in Baroque style in 1664.
Uras belonged to the Giudicato of Arborea during the Middle Ages and became part of the curatoria of Bonorcili. At the fall of the giudicato (1420), it became part of the Marquisate of Oristano. In 1470, there was a famous battle between the Marquis of Oristano Leonardo Alagon and the Aragonese viceroy of the Island Nicolò Carroz, who was defeated. After the subsequent and definitive defeat of the Arborenses (1478), it passed under Aragonese dominion and was incorporated into the County of Quirra, later becoming a marquisate in 1603.
In 1527, it was partially destroyed by a barbarian raid, but later rebuilt.
In 1839, Uras was redeemed from the Osorio de la Cueva, the last feudal lords, with the suppression of the feudal system.
The 2013 flood
Uras also suffered a tragic flood. On November 18, 2013, a violent thunderstorm, caused by Cyclone Cleopatra, hit the city. Almost the whole village was submerged by water, due to the overflow of the two canals, located in the areas of San Salvatore and Sant'Antonio. In addition to extensive damage to homes and fields, there was also one victim and some buildings were destroyed.
Uras: what to see
If you decide to visit Uras, you can take a pleasant walk through the alleys of the historic center, alternating cultural visits with moments of relaxation immersed in nature. Some attractions you cannot miss are:
The obsidian mine
The obsidian processing center is one of the most famous attractions in Uras. Here you can appreciate the processing of the stone, discovering how it transforms into precious objects.
The Arch of Zuane
The Arch of Zuane is one of the most interesting archaeological excavations in the territory: a prehistoric arch-shaped structure at the entrance of the village.
The Church of Santa Maria Maddalena
The Church of Santa Maria Maddalena is a masterpiece of Sardinian art that you can admire in the historic center of the village. Dating back to the 17th century, it has a Baroque-style façade and unique interior decorations.
Mount Arci
Uras is located at the foot of Mount Arci, an important historical obsidian mine. In this area, you can enjoy the unspoiled nature of Sardinia, discovering surprising landscapes.
Lake Omodeo
Another unmissable attraction near Uras is Lake Omodeo, the largest artificial lake in Sardinia. It can be a great idea for a day trip or spending a day with family.
Conclusions
Uras is one of the Sardinian villages that enchants for its tranquility, the beauty of the places, and the suggestion of its historical roots. If you want to discover lesser-known Italy, you cannot miss visiting it. From nature to cultural attractions, Uras will meet your expectations and give you unforgettable moments of relaxation.
