Gavoi
Gavoi | |
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Comune | |
Comune di Gavoi | |
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![]() ![]() Gavoi Location of Gavoi in Sardinia | |
Coordinates: IT 40°10′N 09°12′E / 40.167°N 9.200°ECoordinates: IT 40°10′N 09°12′E / 40.167°N 9.200°E | |
Country | Italy |
Region | Sardinia |
Province / Metropolitan city | Nuoro (NU) |
Area | |
• Total | 38.18 km2 (14.74 sq mi) |
Elevation | 777 m (2,549 ft) |
Population | |
• Total | 3,011 |
• Density | 79/km2 (200/sq mi) |
Demonym(s) | Gavoesi |
Time zone | CET (UTC+1) |
• Summer (DST) | CEST (UTC+2) |
Postal code | 08020 |
Dialing code | 0784 |
Gavoi is a comune in central Sardinia (Italy), part of the province of Nuoro, in the natural region of Barbagia. It overlooks the Lake of Gusana.
History
Gavoi was a very ancient Hebrew colony (allegedly from the 4th century AD) and in the 17th century was repopulated by Tuscan coal miners.
Main sights
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The Roman church of San Gavino is Gavoi's foremost sacred spot, through there are eight other ancient churches in the village. The village's center contains rock houses with balconies, and a village fountain is known as "Antana 'e Cartzonna".
Near the lake are the archaeological areas of Orrui and San Michele di Fonni. A Roman bridge is submerged beneath the lake.
Economy
Mountain tourism. Agriculture production include potatoes and cheese (the town is famous for its pecorino).
Traditions and culture
The "tumbarinu" is a traditional drum made of lamb skin, and more rarely, dog or donkey skin. The tumbarinu is often accompanied with the pipiolu, the traditional sheppard's fife. The "ballu tundu", is a traditional dance in the round, as in the Balkan area. Poetry is esteemed, including extemporaneous rhyme competitions on given topics.
The nearby Sanctuary of Madonna d'Itria hosts a palio, in this case a peculiar horse competition very similar to that of Siena.
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