Berchidda

The jazz centre of Sardinia

On the slopes of the Limbara, in the mountainous heart of Gallura, lies the small town of Berchidda. A place rich in history and cultural events, set in the rugged landscapes of the Sardinian hinterland. 

The village’s Art Nouveau houses and buildings wind up its steep streets in a crescent shape. The town is home to numerous buildings of religious interest, such as the 17th-century Church of the Rosary and the bucolic churches of St Catherine and St Andrew. Near the village, 500 metres above sea level, stands the Montacuto Castle, built in the 11th century.

Those who prefer to wander through the Mediterranean scrubland will be amazed by the beauty of the Monte Limbara State Forest, with its paths through beech forests and its “Stazzu”, ancient shelters for shepherds and animals during transhumance. Breathe in the pure air rich with scent of myrtle and juniper and admire the characteristic cork oaks up close.

Berchidda remains a reference point for music lovers. Every year, the international jazz music festival, Time in Jazz, is held. Created by trumpeter Paolo Fresu, the event welcomes musicians, artists and fans from all over the world. During the Christmas festivities, on the other hand, do not miss the Notte de Chelu (“celestial night” in Sardinian), during which each of the town’s eight districts creates and displays its own nativity scene.