5 treasures of Sardinian craftsmanship
You can discover Sardegna by studying the weaves of its carpets, examining the patterns of its baskets or admiring the distinctive features of its jewellery.
Craftsmanship in Sardegna is a treasure trove of tradition and creativity that reflects the unique spirit of this island.
Sardinian master craftsmen create authentic works of art using local natural materials and employing techniques often passed down through the generations.
We have selected five of the many outstanding examples of local craftsmanship.
1) NULE RUGS
Nule is renowned for its handcrafted rugs made from Sardinian sheep’s wool, woven on vertical looms according to ancient tradition.
From the early decades of the 20th century, the artisans began incorporating colour into their work.
According to legend, the Moor Bolìn, having fallen in love with Milena, a young weaver from Nule, proposed marriage to her; in return, he would reveal to her the secret of extracting colours from herbs.
Bolìn kept his promise, teaching his bride how to use various natural herbs to dye the wool.
This is why the characteristic pattern of the Nule carpet is called ‘a fiamma’ (flame), which represents both the ardour of love and the hearth, a symbol of the family.
It consists, in fact, of vibrant colours that form rhomboidal geometric patterns. In addition to the classic ‘flame’ carpet, an infinite variety of designs can be created using different colour combinations to suit individual tastes
2) THE BASKETS OF Castelsardo
The Castelsardo baskets are unique in the world. Along the narrow streets of the medieval village, there are many artisans – both men and women – who devote themselves to this craft with deep-rooted traditions, and it is common to see them weaving in their workshops.
The weaving techniques are varied and sophisticated, and we recommend a visit to the Museum of Mediterranean Weaving to discover some real treasures of Sardegna.
The baskets were originally used to hold bread and homemade pasta; the larger ones contained the bride’s trousseau; whilst other types held pulses and provisions, and even linen when necessary. Local elders recount that in hard times, such as during wars, people managed to earn a living thanks to these baskets, which were used for harvesting and storing cereals, bread and other supplies. They were therefore a sought-after commodity for trade, providing work and sustenance for the local population.
Now, the famous Castelsardo baskets have also become prized handicrafts that adorn and brighten up our homes.
3) AGGIUS RUGS
The craft of weaving Aggius carpets has been a source of livelihood and economic activity since the nineteenth century. Local craft workshops have never ceased to produce carpets and continue to pass on the art from one generation to the next.
Aggius carpets are distinguished by their colours and patterns, which bring to life a sort of ‘textile painting’.
The weaving style is known as ‘a dati’: a series of horizontal stripes separated by a band of a different shade, called ‘pomu’.
They are large in size and made from linen and carded wool, with stripes that create a riot of colour.
To admire the Aggius carpets, simply visit the Oliva Carta Cannas Ethnographic Museum, which houses authentic treasures of textile art.
As well as admiring carpets and tapestries, in the Weaving Room you can watch an explanation and demonstration of the ancient local art of weaving.
4) JEWELLERY
The art of goldsmithing in Sardegna is significant, and Sardinian jewellery is now famous throughout the world.
Every area of Sardegna has its own tradition of craftsmanship. In Northern Sardinia, Alghero coral – Corallium rubrum (also known as Mediterranean red coral) – is widely found, and is used to produce jewellery and handcrafted items of the highest quality. Alghero is the capital of this art form, which you can admire at the Coral Museum.
Filigree work is widespread throughout Sardegna. Ancient jewellery made using filigree can still be admired today on traditional garments. There are many villages in Northern Sardinia where you can find this marvellous filigree jewellery, in both gold and silver, and during the Salude & Trigu events there will be plenty of opportunities to see stunning pieces such as the ‘Sa Buttonera’ on the traditional costume of Ittiri.
5) PATTADA KNIVES
Pattada knives are precious objects born of the expertise of the artisans of the village of Pattada.
Their original name is ‘resolza pattadesa’ – a work of art – which has now become a cult object sought after by collectors from all over the world.
The knives have distinctive shapes and are finished and inlaid with precious stones and metals.
We’d like to draw your attention to the Pattada Knife Museum and recommend that you explore the village’s streets, where you can visit the artisan knife workshops.
