Feast of the Redeemer in Nuoro 2025: The Municipality's Programme

Feast of the Redeemer in Nuoro 2025: the heart of Sardinian folklore between faith and tradition

The Festa del Redentore (Feast of the Redeemer) in Nuoro is back again in 2025, confirming itself as one of the most fascinating cultural, religious and popular events in central Sardinia. Every year, at the end of August, the city of Nuoro is dressed in colours, music and spirituality, welcoming thousands of people eager to live an authentic experience amid traditional costumes, songs, dances and moments of strong devotion. This celebration is not just a religious occasion: it is a true regional folklore festival, an open window on the past and the deepest soul of the Sardinian people. If you are curious to find out what is going to happen in the Feast of the Redeemer 2025, get ready: I will guide you step by step through history, rituals, emotions and practical details so you don't miss anything.

When will the Feast of the Redeemer take place in Nuoro in 2025?

The Feast of the Redeemer of Nuoro 2025 will be held as per tradition at the end of August, and in particular the highlight will be 29 August, the day dedicated to Christ the Redeemer. However, the celebration will not be limited to a single day: activities will already begin in the days leading up to it, with cultural events, exhibitions, concerts and re-enactments animating the entire historic centre of Nuoro and culminating in the evocative procession on Monte Ortobene. The date of 29 August represents a pivotal moment, but the week preceding it will also be full of religious and folkloristic events. Prepare to see the city transform into a huge open-air theatre, where participants in traditional dress and costumed groups are invited from all over the island to parade with pride and respect.

What is the history of Nuoro's Festa del Redentore?

The Feast of the Redeemer was born back in 1901, when Pope Leo XIII decided to celebrate the Jubilee by placing as many images of Jesus the Redeemer on 19 Italian peaks, one for each region. For Sardinia, the summit of Monte Ortobene, a few kilometres from Nuoro, was chosen. The statue of the Redeemer, the work of sculptor Vincenzo Ierace, was cast in Naples and transported to the summit thanks to oxcarts provided by Nuoro farmers. On the day of the consecration, it is said that 8,000 faithful climbed up the mountain to attend the solemn mass: every year since then, the city renews this moment of faith with deep popular involvement. This religious celebration has strongly contributed to the process of Nuoro's transformation from a small village of shepherds to a city symbolising Sardinian culture and traditions.

Where do the main events of the festival take place?

The main events of the Festa del Redentore 2025 take place in two key locations: the centre of Nuoro and the summit of Monte Ortobene. In the city, particularly in the Piazza Sardegna area, the traditional parade of traditional Sardinian costumes is held, with hundreds of people from all over the island parading proudly displaying their local costumes. On Monte Ortobene, on the other hand, the religious part of the festival is held, with the celebration of the solemn mass at the base of the statue of Christ the Redeemer. It is a moment charged with spiritual significance, uniting the community in a single voice of prayer. The breathtaking panorama, sincere devotion and live music from the Nuoro choirs make this a truly unforgettable experience.

What does the statue of the Redeemer represent?

The bronze statue of the Redeemer, 7 metres high and weighing 18 quintals, dominates the summit of Mount Ortobene and represents the spiritual heart of the festival. It was commissioned by the local executive committee set up following the choice of the diocese of Nuoro and realised with the contribution of the entire population, through an awareness campaign that also involved the proceeds of a lottery. The statue is not only a work of art but a powerful symbol of unity, identity and hope. Every year, on 29 August, thousands of people climb the mountain to honour Jesus the Redeemer, perpetuating a ritual that has lasted for more than a century.

Why is the parade of traditional costumes so special?

The parade of traditional costumes is one of the most eagerly awaited and spectacular moments of the Feast of the Redeemer in Nuoro. This is where all the charm of Sardinian folklore is expressed: hundreds of participants in traditional costumes parade through the streets, accompanied by music, songs and dances that vary from village to village. Each traditional costume tells a story: every seam, colour, jewel or headgear represents a specific identity, passed down through generations. This event is not just a parade, but a celebration of the culture of Nuoro and the entire island, in a procession of costumes that enchants residents and tourists alike.

Who participates in the Feast of the Redeemer?

People of all ages participate in Nuoro's Redentore festival: from children to grandparents, from curious tourists to devout pilgrims. In particular, folk groups from every corner of central Sardinia, but also from other parts of the island, take part. Each year, the municipality of Nuoro invites dozens of associations to parade and take part in the celebrations, making the festival a true regional folklore festival. Numerous craftspeople, local artists, traditional choirs and dancers also enrich the event, which extends over several days with a variety of different and enthralling initiatives.

How to reach Nuoro for the 2025 celebration?

Nuoro is easily reached from all over Sardinia thanks to a good road network. Those arriving by plane can land in Olbia or Cagliari, from where buses and trains depart to the capital of the third province established in 1926 by the fascist regime. During the week of the festival, the municipality and local associations organise special shuttle services to take visitors from the city to the summit of Monte Ortobene, thus reducing the environmental impact and ensuring a more comfortable experience for all.

What is the link between the party and Grazia Deledda?

Grazia Deledda, Nobel laureate in literature and emblematic figure of Nuoro, often recounted the soul of her city, also through descriptions related to the feast of the Redeemer. In her writings, the strong bond between the community and the spirituality that pervades this feast day shines through, as does the austere beauty of Mount Ortobene. Grazia Deledda's presence in the narration of the feast contributes even more depth to the significance of this event: it is not just a festival or a procession, but a reflection of the culture and sensitivity of an entire people.

What to expect from the Feast of the Redeemer 2025?

The 2025 edition of the Feast of the Redeemer in Nuoro promises to be full of many novelties, while respecting tradition. The official programme will soon be published on the Nuoro Municipality's official website, but we can already anticipate moments of entertainment, live music, photographic exhibitions, as well as religious rituals. The involvement of the new generations, the promotion of traditional Sardinian costumes, and the enhancement of cultural heritage and handicrafts will once again be the focus. If you love the most authentic Sardinia, you cannot miss it.

Is it really worth participating?

Absolutely. The Feast of the Redeemer 2025 is a unique opportunity to discover the true soul of Sardinia, far from the clichés. It is a moment of encounter, faith, music and identity. Whether you are a culture lover, a folklore enthusiast or simply curious, this festival will leave you with indelible emotions.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions on the Feast of the Redeemer 2025

Where can I find the official festival programme?
On the official website of the Municipality of Nuoro, usually starting in July.

Is participation in the parade open to all?
No, only selected groups can parade, but the public can watch freely.

Need a ticket to attend mass?
No, the mass on Monte Ortobene is free and open to all.

What should you bring for the climb?
Comfortable shoes, water, hat and sunscreen.

Where to park on festival days?
Extra parking spaces with shuttle service included.

Is the party suitable for children?
Yes, there are activities designed for families as well.

Will there be food stands?
Yes, in the city you will find numerous offerings of Sardinian cuisine and street food.

Can you get to the mountain with animals?
Yes, but it is recommended to keep them on a leash and respect the environment.

How long does the costume parade last?
It generally lasts several hours, in the morning of the Sunday before 29 August.

Are there also events in the evening?
Yes, concerts and folk shows enliven the evenings in Nuoro.