In August the regatta of the “fassonis” in Santa Giusta

On the first Sunday of August, in the pond of Santa Giusta takes place the traditional regatta of the “fassonis”, boats constructed interlacing canes of swamp (“su feu”, an endangered specie), used by the fishermen of Arborea and Cabras regions and in the Peninsula of the Sinis. Provided with a very pointed prow and a docking stern, these boats fit with low waters, rich in aquatic plants.

At the regatta participated also the so-called “cius”, wooden boats with a flat bottom. Every year, thousands of visitors are attracted by this event, which ends with tasting of eels, fish and Vernaccia.

The competition of the Santa Giusta pond is based on the speed, a part from the ability of the racers, who must stand and show great equilibrium, pushing "su fassoni" by pressing on a perch that sinks on the pond's bed.

"Is fassonis" look like the boats represented in many Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia finds. These boats are also similar to those still used today ein the lake Titicaca (Perù) but are certailny bigger and with both extremities raised, and constructed with canes of totora.

Nowadays, there are really few craftsmen knowing the tradition of the construction of "fassonis", but local institutions are planning to pass it on to young people.
The magic of the regatta of August and the enthusiasm of the people assembled around the Santa Giusta pond, confirm the importance of keeping this cultural patrimony.