The municipality of Gonnostramatza is located in central Sardinia, in Marmilla – in the historical region called Parte Montis, at a distance of 65 km from Cagliari and 40 km from Oristano, the provincial capital. Located at an elevation of 88 meters above sea level, it has an area of 17.53 square kilometers and a population of about 800.
The municipality’s territory is characterized by soft marly heights alternating with basaltic cliffs, within which are valleys rich in vineyards, almond and olive groves. The term Gonus de tramatzu has the meaning of “village located among tamarisk trees.” Embedded in an area inhabited since prehistoric times as evidenced by various finds from the Neolithic tombs of Bingia’è Monti, it lies on the two banks of the Riu Mannu River, which divides it into two main districts: the smaller one called bixianeddu and the larger one xianu mannu, located one to the west of the river and the other to the east. The wards have on the one hand streets with irregular morphology in path and size and on the other hand an architectural composition of houses made of stones and mud.
The village appears with the name Gonnos de Tramacia among the villas represented in the deed of peace stipulated by Eleonora D’Arborea with King John I of Aragon in 1388. Throughout feudal times the village was part of the county of Quirra. The village until the 17th century was the most populated and important center in Marmilla. From 1821 to 1859 it became part of the province of Isili-mandal of Mogoro.
