The Barbagia di Seulo is a historic region that includes the territories of Sadali, Esterzili, Seui, Ussassai, and Seulo. It is a mountainous area with stunning rugged and forested landscapes, traversed for much of its length by the Flumendosa River. Sadali, Esterzili, and Seulo are the municipalities that border the Sarcidano and share the closest ties with it, including institutional connections as part of the Comunità Montana Sarcidano-Barbagia di Seulo.
Esterzili is a picturesque village nestled at the foot of Mount Santa Vittoria. While the village itself is situated at around 700 meters above sea level, the mountain’s summit rises to 1,212 meters, making it a fantastic destination for hiking and walking, offering breathtaking views. Mount Santa Vittoria is also home to an archaeologically significant site: the temple of Sa Domu de Orgìa. Built in the 13th century BCE during the Nuragic period, it is the largest megaron-type temple in Sardinia. Legend has it that the temple was once the dwelling of a powerful witch who guarded a treasure hidden in a jar, placed next to an identical jar containing the deadly Musca Macedda, a killer fly that would unleash death and destruction if released.
Sadali, known as the “village of water,” is the only inhabited center in Sardinia with a waterfall within its town limits. Its nickname stems from the many streams that flow through various points of the village, converging at the San Valentino waterfall near the church square. The waterfall’s name reflects another unique feature of Sadali: it is the only town with a parish dedicated to Saint Valentine. In recent years, Sadali has enhanced its historic center, making it one of the most beautiful in the area. Visitors can stroll among the ancient stone houses, accompanied by the soothing sound of water flowing through small channels winding between them. From the waterfall, the journey continues to Sa ‘Ucca Manna (the Great Mouth), a crevice where waters vanish into the underground before resurfacing much farther downstream. Sadali is also home to the stunning Is Janas caves and several Nuragic sites.
Seulo, the town that gives the entire historic region its name, is another mountain village surrounded by lush forests and traversed for a long stretch by the Flumendosa River. The municipality boasts numerous natural landmarks worth visiting, such as Su Stampu ‘e su Turrunu, a unique waterfall emerging from a cave due to the area’s karst phenomena. Other notable formations include S’arcu ‘e su Cuaddu (the Horse’s Arch) and the limestone canyon Tonneri di Nusaùnu. The natural pools along the Flumendosa, such as Sa Stiddiosa, are particularly striking, with a peculiar dripping waterfall that gives the site its name. This area is popular with hikers, and for over 20 years, Seulo has hosted Andalas, an event held each August that attracts hundreds of outdoor enthusiasts. The proceeds from the event are donated to charity, making it not only a wonderful opportunity to explore Seulo’s natural beauty but also a meaningful initiative. Additionally, excursions can be organized year-round with the help of operators from the Ecomuseum of Alto Flumendosa.
