Cortes Apertas: A Journey to the Authentic Heart of Sardinia

Discovering the traditions, customs and traditions of a people from an ancient land.

Sardinia is famous for its fascinating beaches, but the hinterland reveals an unparalleled mosaic of traditions and culture. The annual event, “Cortes Apertas,” illuminates these hidden treasures.

The Magic of Cortes Apertas

Deep in Barbagia, in places like Bitti, Oliena and Sarule, a unique celebration takes place. During “Cortes Apertas,” or “Open Courts,” local communities unveil the hidden treasures of their homes, offering visitors a rare opportunity to learn, for example, how traditional carasau bread or myrtle is made, learn about the history of the costumes kept in their homes, or attend an impromptu concert of organetto or tenores.

How the Autunno in Barbagia event was born.

In 1996, the Municipality of Oliena organized an event called “Cortes Apertas”: the historic houses of the town opened their courtyards and a food and wine and artistic itinerary took place among them. It is immediately understood that the formula, thus set up, is a success.

In 1997 the “Heart of Sardinia” project was created, which also encompasses cortes apertas. In 2001 municipalities and chamber of commerce decide to start a larger project called Autunno in Barbagia, a promotional showcase of the interior of Sardinia, the traditions, customs and traditions of the Barbagia area. So cortes apertas expands and no longer just Oliena but many other towns join the event, showing the public their ancient arts such as dairy: seeing how cheese is made, making it together with the shepherd, tasting the finished product and then buying it, is priceless.

What to Expect from Cortes Apertas 2023:

• New Courts: Each year new families join the event, increasing the variety and number of participants.
• Artistic Workshops: In addition to classic demonstrations, participants can experience firsthand with interactive workshops.
• Gastronomic Itineraries: In addition to the usual tastings, there will be gastronomic itineraries, revealing the secrets behind Sardinian delicacies.
• Theater of Traditions: Old stories and rituals will be revived through immersive theatrical performances.
• Live Concerts: 2023 will be all about music, with performances combining both local and international talent.

Despite the appeal of the beaches, Cortes Apertas invites you to look beyond them. It is a call to connect to the island’s roots, to enjoy its tasty cuisine and to discover traditional crafts.

For more information, visit the official website and browse the full program.

Click here!