Mount Ortobene

Climbing the 995-meters-high summit of Mt. Ortobene is one of the best moments of any trip to Sardinia. The winding road slowly rises above the town of Nuoro and when you reach the peak you’re greeted by an excellent view of the Supramonte and towns of Oliena and Orgosolo. The landscape is truly sublime: white limestone mountains set against the azure Sardinian sea. At the top, there’s a statue of the Christ the Redeemer built in 1901 (yes, so old yet so new!). The statue’s bronze feet literally glow from the all devotional kisses of the local Catholics. It is one of the 19 statues that Pope Leo XIII built to celebrate 19 centuries of Catholicism in Italy.

Redeemer Statue is an impressive bronze work by the sculptor Vincenzo Jerace. It’s located atop Mt. Ortobene at nearly 1000 meters of elevation. At the foot of the statue is a plaque dedicated to Jerace Luisa, wife of the sculptor. It’s a nice place to visit, not only for religious pilgrims, but also those looking to enjoy the beautiful views over the valley. Really, it’s an ideal place for picnics and nature walks. In August, there’s a large festival held in honor of the Redeemer which has grown famous throughout Sardinia.

Monte overlooks the city of Nuoro, which is the capital of Barbaggia. It is the mountainous area of ​​Sardinia and the most traditional. It has a nice veranda and a huge sculpture of the 'Christ of Ortobene'. It is a good place to relax, admire the scenery, and take part in the village festivals celebrating Mass.