Oristano, Provincial capital in western Sardinia, Italy.
Oristano is a town in the province of Oristano on the west coast of Sardinia, spreading across flat land between lagoons and the sea. Streets run through residential neighborhoods with traditional houses, and modern buildings stand beside churches and historic squares that form the center.
The settlement began in the eleventh century when coastal inhabitants moved inland to escape Arab raids. It became the capital of the Judicate of Arborea and held this role for over three centuries, until the judicate came under Aragonese rule.
The name evolved from the medieval term Aristanis, referring to the lagoon landscape that surrounded the area. Today the narrow streets of the old center recall the time when fishermen and craftsmen lived and worked here, while the open squares still serve as gathering places.
The old center can be explored on foot, and most sights lie within walking distance of each other. Buses run regularly to the surrounding lagoons and beaches, which are a few kilometers away.
During Carnival, riders in the Sa Sartiglia tournament wear historic costumes and black masks that fully conceal their faces. The lead rider is symbolically transformed into an androgynous deity embodying the transition from winter to spring.
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