Hidden in the heart of Sardinia, in the municipality of Uras, in the province of Oristano, in the Campidano area, it is a small jewel rich in culture, history and traditions. This village, linked to agricultural, pastoral and textile activities, is known not only for its beautiful landscape, but also for its focus on mural art, which has helped transform the town centre into an open-air gallery.
History and culture
Uras is a town with deep historical roots, as evidenced by the numerous archaeological finds in the vicinity. Its history is linked to that of the civilizations that inhabited Sardinia over the centuries, from the Nuraghi to the Romans. The town has kept its traditions alive, giving ample space to festivals and events that celebrate Sardinian culture, such as Carnival, the Feast of San Giovanni and the celebrations of Saint Antiochus.
The Uras Murals
In recent decades, Uras has undergone a surprising transformation thanks to the art of murals. The mural decoration project involved local and international artists. The walls of houses, public buildings and enclosure walls were embellished with works of art that tell stories, traditions, myths and legends of Sardinia, which have transformed the town into a point of reference for lovers of art and cultural tourism. The most beautiful of them all is called “Sá Festa” and is a work by the artist Atzarese Mauro Patta.
The mural, which measures 27 square meters, is considered one of the 100 most beautiful murals in the world. The website rewarded it in 2022 “Street Art Cities” which selects the best street art in the world every year. “The work – as Patta himself defined it – is a tribute to the city of Uras, its colors and its traditions. In the center is a woman in traditional attire, characterized by an embroidered shawl. Behind her are elements and colors that always recall her clothes, such as the purple of the apron and skirt and the red of the first scarf.
The floral background, which also recalls Sardinian brocade, is a clear reference to village festivals and the custom of spreading thousands of flowers along the streets where processions pass through. The murals are not only a decorative element, but also represent an important tool for social and cultural expression. Each work is a message, a call to reflect on themes such as identity, respect for the environment and the appreciation of local traditions.
Visiting Uras is like immersing yourself in an original reality, rich in colors and meanings, which testifies to the power of art as a tool for dialogue and social cohesion. If you are in Sardinia, don’t forget to stop and discover the wonders of Uras and its extraordinary murals.
(Photo: Street Art Cities, Facebook page, Uras municipality, Facebook page)