Magic Of Christmas In Sardinia, Traditions And Flavors 0 Comments

Even if the Gabbiano Azzurro Hotel & Suites is closed during the winter months, our blog wants to let you discover the wonders of Sardinia in each season. Christmas in Sardinia is a journey into the heart of thousand-year-old traditions, authentic flavors and an atmosphere of warm welcome. If you are looking for inspiration for your next trip, our blog is here accompanying you to discover Sardinia, season after season.

Christmas on the island is a unique moment in which ancient traditions are intertwined with the spirituality, folklore and culture of this wonderful Mediterranean island. The Christmas holidays in Sardinia are not just moments of celebration, of meeting up, but a journey through time, in which Christian rites mix with ancient pre-Christian traditions.

As we wrote last year in Grazia Deledda’s  “The Christmas Gift”, a very heartfelt moment is Christmas Eve, during which Sardinian families gather for a dinner full of significance and authentic flavours. After the meal, it is customary to participate in the Midnight Mass (Sa Missa 'e Puddu), for the birth of Christ. Music is an essential part of Sardinian Christmas. Polyphonic choirs sing ancient songs in the Sardinian language which create an evocative atmosphere, such as the famous Deus ti Salvet Maria. Traditional dances are also organised, such as the Ballu Tundu, performed around bonfires.

In many rural communities, rites linked to fertility and prosperity persist. An example is Su Nenniri, a tradition that has its roots in the agrarian cults of paleochristian Sardinia. During Advent, wheat grains or lentils are sown in small terracotta containers. The sprouts that are born, symbol of rebirth, are placed near the nativity scene or brought to church as an offering during Christmas celebrations.

The Christmas bonfires, often accompanied by traditional songs and dances, lit in many squares on the island, symbolizing the light illuminating the darkness and uniting the community in a moment of sharing and celebration.

The nativity scene is one of the most loved decorations in Sardinia. In many villages, the statuettes in traditional Sardinian clothes are often handmade by local artisans. Among the most spectacular nativity scenes on the island, there is the living one in Aggius, in Gallura, where the entire town is transformed into the Nativity.

Christmas time is when traditional Sardinian cuisine is at its best. The Christmas desserts prepared in Gallura are traditionally made of simple and genuine ingredients. Here are some of the most representative: Papassini (Papassinos), prepared with flour, walnuts, almonds, raisins and enriched with aromas such as cinnamon and orange peel. Acciuleddi, small fried dough interlacing prepared with flour, eggs and sugar, then covered in honey. Cucciuleddi e Meli, filled with honey and flavored with citrus peel. The Seadas (or Sebadas), fried sweets, filled with fresh cheese and covered with honey, a real delight also for the Christmas holidays. Tiliccas, with a filling of honey, walnuts or almonds, and sometimes raisins. Mustazzoli (or Mustazzolos), spiced biscuits made from cooked wine must, with an intense and enveloping flavour. Pistiddu, with a filling of sapa (cooked must), walnuts and orange zest.

Visiting the villages of Sardinia during Christmas is an unforgettable experience. The streets are filled with lights, kiosks and handcrafted nativity scenes. Among the most fascinating villages to visit during the holidays are:

• Castelsardo: famous for its live nativity scene and Christmas markets.

• Orgosolo: famous for its murals, which during Christmas are enriched with bright decorations.

• Bosa: with its colorful houses and the river reflecting the Christmas lights, it offers a magical atmosphere.

Merry Christmas, Bonas Pascas cumpridas of the ancient Sardinian formula, and happy discovery of our beloved island!

Written by Daniela Toti

Photo di Koros Sardegna