he Tower of Barisardo: A Stone Sentinel on the Sea, Guardian of History and Traditions

Imposing and majestic, the Tower of Barisardo stands on a rocky promontory overlooking the Ogliastra coast, separating the enchanting beaches of Torre di Barisardo and Planargia. This fortress, originally dedicated to Saint Anthony and therefore known as "de Sant'Antonio de Barì," represents a precious example of coastal military architecture, a testament to the ancient defense strategies of the territory. Its construction, datable between 1572 and 1639, is supported by the "Carta sulla descricion de la Isla Y Reyno de Sardena" by Francesco Vico, where it is mentioned for the first time.

Strategic Functions and Impressive Architecture: A Bulwark Against Incursions

The tower played a crucial role as a lookout, offering a view of about 15 km that ranged from Capo Bellavista to Capo Sferracavallo. Its strategic position allowed it to control the mouth of the Riu Mannu, a potential landing point for Barbary and pirate raids, interested in water supply and the looting of the coasts. Built with local granite and basalt rocks, the tower has a truncated-conical shape, with a height of 12.75 meters and a diameter of 11.4 meters at the base, reducing to 8 meters at the terrace. The interior houses a small circular room of about 14 square meters, covered by a domed vault. Access to the room was via an opening located 4 meters above the ground, probably for security reasons. Inside, a trapdoor led to the underground cistern, essential to ensure water supply in case of siege, while a staircase built into the wall thickness led to the parade ground, where soldiers could defend themselves and maneuver the cannons.

Cultural and Religious Heritage of Barisardo: A Journey Through History and Faith

• Church of the Blessed Virgin of Monserrato:
  • Considered one of the most beautiful and majestic churches in Ogliastra and throughout Sardinia, the church of the Blessed Virgin of Monserrato dominates the town's profile with its 18th-century bell tower, 35 meters high, a true symbol of the community.
  • Its construction, the result of the participation of the entire community, probably began in 1601 and ended in 1790 with the completion of the bell tower, designed by the architect Giuseppe Viana, a work that testifies to the devotion and commitment of the Barisardese.
• Church of San Leonardo:
  • This small 16th-century church, recently restored, once housed the wooden statue of San Leonardo, a saint much venerated in Sardinia.
• Church of Santa Cecilia:
  • Immersed in a lush garden, the country church of Santa Cecilia hosts various religious celebrations during the year, particularly during patron saint festivals, offering a glimpse of local traditions.

These places of interest testify to the historical and cultural richness of Barisardo, offering visitors an authentic and evocative experience, a journey through time to discover the traditions and spirituality of this land.