Lodine and the Barbagia di Ollolai Region
The Historical Region of Barbagia di Ollolai
Barbagia di Ollolai (Barbàgia ’e Ollolai), or Upper Barbagia, is a historical mountainous subregion in central Sardinia characterized by deep valleys, ancient forests, and a rich pastoral culture that resisted Roman conquest.
Overview of Lodine
Lodine is a small agricultural and pastoral mountain village situated at 884 meters above sea level, making it the fifth-highest municipality in Sardinia. Nestled in the Massari valley near the confluence of the Rio Madau into the Gusana reservoir, its economy is rooted in traditional agriculture and sheep and goat farming. Historically, Lodine was renowned for crafting Sa Teula—traditional red terracotta tiles and bricks used for roofs and vaults throughout Barbagia until the mid-20th century.
Origins & History: Attested since 1341 (Loculo), the name is of uncertain Paleo-Sardinian origin. Inhabited since prehistory, medieval Lodine belonged to the Giudicato of Arborea within the Ollolai curatoria. It later passed under the Marquisate of Oristano and the Duchy of Mandas (Maza, Tellez-Giron) until feudal abolition in 1839. It was briefly annexed to Gavoi in 1928 before regaining full municipal autonomy in 1988.
Key Sites & Cultural Highlights:
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Church of San Giorgio Martire Guerriero: A 16th-century former parish church perched on a high ridge, featuring single-nave interiors and a statue of Saint George on horseback. It is fronted by the Piazza San Giorgio, a belvedere overlooking Lake Gusana and the Gennargentu mountains.
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Sanctuary of San Giuseppe: The modern parish church of Lodine.
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Soroeni Archaeological Area: A plateau site featuring a complex granite nuraghe and a surrounding Nuragic village showing continuous occupation through the Late Middle Ages.