A mountain center in Barbagia di Ollolai, bordering Mandrolisai, the village is situated on a granite plateau of Mount Orohole, near the artificial lake of Cucchinadorza. The urban core follows a circular route where typical granite dwellings and narrow cobblestone streets give it the appearance of an ancient mountain village. In the historic center stands the church of the patron saint, St. George, built in the Aragonese style, with a tall 18th-century bell tower.
Human presence in the territory has deep roots. Archaeological sites of relevant interest, some dating back to the pre-Nuragic culture of more than five thousand years ago, include the menhirs of Predas Fittas and Domosnovas, the domus de janas of S’abba vo^ada and Mancossu, the giants’ tombs of Su Nodu ‘e Lopene, the nuraghi of Nieddio, Finonele, Campos and Orohole, and the nuragic village of Osseli.
In recent years, the local economy has undergone considerable development with particular regard to the pastoral and agricultural sectors, purely traditional sectors, and with a recent affirmation of the agri-food sector, with the artisanal production and marketing of excellent products such as cheeses, cured meats, wines, sweets and carasau bread locally called ”Pane ‘e Fressa.” Also of particular importance is the stone industry and the mining and processing of cork, of which the area is rich.
Various religious and folk festivals joyfully involve the entire Ovid community. The most important ones are those of Carnival, which culminates on Ash Wednesday with the burning of a puppet named Don Conte Forru, the April 23 patron saint St. George, the June 28, 29 and 30 country festival of St. Peter of Oleri, which has as its backdrop the ancient little church of the same name, and the traditional pariglie held during the second Sunday in July, where expert horsemen delight the public with spectacular and dangerous horseback stunts.
Dances in the squares, songs and tastings of local delicacies are organized on all festivities, which find particular resonance in the Autunno in Barbagia ”Cortes Apertas” event, which is a major draw for tourists and visitors.
During religious celebrations and processions, the traditional costume of Ovodda makes its appearance, truly lavish in its fabrics and harnesses.
Ovodda is the place of centenarians. The good air, healthy food, pure water and healthy habits of the people have given the country a world-renowned record: that of longevity. The municipality in concert with the University of Sassari has initiated scientific research on longevity with the AKEA (acronym for ”A kent’annos”) project. Thanks to this researchers from the international scientific world are studying the area in search of the elixir of youth to thus reveal the reasons why Ovodda is one of the few towns with such a high number of centenarians. The pristine environment surrounding Ovodda has allowed the development of unique lifestyles and high quality agri-food productions that still preserve the flavors and scents of ancient traditions.
