Mamuthones, Merdules and Thurpos: local wood for the masks

Since antiquities, the Barbagie have been rich in woods and fine trees (sessile oak, walnut, chestnut tree, cherry tree, oleaster), that have always supplied quality timber. Many the towns in which you can find clever craftsmen who carve the wood to produce objects of everyday use (chopping boards, wooden spoons, bowls, containers of several sizes and shapes), or furnitures, stools, chairs and sardinian chests. The craftsmen of Aritzo, Desulo, Gadoni and Tonara, shine for their ability and for their productions of gift goods, furnitures, chairs and chests.

From centuries, Mamoiada, Orani, Orotelli and Ottana are the centers specialized in the production of carnival masks carved in the wood, that fall under the most ancient traditions of the Barbagie and they always attract tourists in occasion of the main festivities.

The masks worn by the famous Mamuthones of Mamoiada, but also those of the Merdules of Ottana and the Thurpos of Orotelli, have magic and symbolic meanings: theirs strong and angular features strike fear and respect, but conserve intact an ancient charm.