Bitti, the village famous for its ‘canto a tenore’ singing

Bitti is located in a picturesque mountainous area, surrounded by lush cork oak forests and nestled in a valley surrounded by the hills of Sant'Elia, Monte Bannitu and Buon Cammino. The village is laid out like an amphitheatre, with houses that, over the centuries, have gathered around the historic centre represented by the church of San Giorgio. Walking through the historic centre, it is still possible to admire the ancient stone buildings, evidence of the local architectural tradition. The community of Bitti is deeply attached to religion, as demonstrated by the presence of twenty churches in the municipal area. Bitti is also famous for its canto a tenore, a unique musical tradition appreciated not only in Sardinia but also beyond the island's borders.

The beauty of the village

Bitti is located in an unspoilt area, rich in cork oak forests and striking granite sculptures. In the surroundings of the village, the Littos oasis offers a beautiful expanse of Mediterranean scrub, with small lakes and lush vegetation. A short distance from the historic centre stands Mount Tepilora, recognisable for its distinctive triangular shape. The Crastazza area offers ancient paths, once used by charcoal burners, which are now ideal for walking, cycling or horse riding. Among the natural landscapes, the S'Illorai waterfall stands out, surrounded by fragrant rosemary and lavender bushes.

The village is also a point of reference for history and archaeology: the nuragic site of Romanzesu, about 13 km away, is a residential complex discovered in the 1980s, consisting of huts and monumental buildings used for worship, now protected and promoted. Other historical destinations include the Tombs of the Giants of Guore and Solle and the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Miracolo.

Finally, the local museums recount the traditions of Bitti: the Museum of Rural and Pastoral Life traces daily life and traditional activities, while the Museum of Tenor Singing is a centre for the study and promotion of Sardinian polyphony, a meeting point for scholars and enthusiasts.

Events in the village

The events and celebrations in Bitti combine the Sardinian religious calendar with local traditions. On 16 January, the feast of St. Anthony the Abbot is celebrated with the lighting of the traditional bonfire in the square in front of the parishes of St. George the Martyr and SS. Salvatore. During Holy Week, the evocative rites of “S'iscravamentu” and “S'incontru” take place. 23 April is dedicated to St. George the Martyr, patron saint of the village, while in May the community goes to the Sanctuary of the Annunciation for 12 days of celebrations. Throughout the year, numerous country festivals are held, with mass and community lunch. From 26 December to 6 January, “Su Nenneddu” takes place, in which the statue of the Baby Jesus is carried into homes, accompanied by sacred songs and celebrations with local wines and traditional sweets, organised by the Oches de S'Annossata Polyphonic Choir.

photo credits Massimiliano Donati