Giorgino Fishermen’s Village is located about a mile away from the center of Cagliari. The neighborhood, now home to 62 residents, was founded in 1939 under the fascist regime to build housing for fishermen in the area. The Village rises along the initial stretch of the sandy strip of “La Playa,” which separates Cagliari Pond from the Gulf of Angels.
The villagers continue to keep alive the traditions and customs of the past: the most important event for the community is the Feast of St. Ephisius, which takes place every year on May 1. On that occasion, the fishermen accompany the saint to the small village church, where the statue is stripped of its city trappings to put on its country dress and then resume its journey to Nora. During the procession, the fishermen parade barefoot and wear very simply made clothes in colors that symbolize their strong connection with the sea. The saint makes another stop in Giorgino on May four, on his way back to Cagliari.
The Fishermen’s Village is also known for its Fish Festival, organized since 1985 by the Neighborhood Committee. The festival is held in Our Lady of Fatima Square on the first weekend of September.
