Handicraft

Sassari, like the whole of Sardinia, boasts a rich tradition of handicraft and artisan activities which have ancient origins. In spite of modern technology, Sardinian artisans have passed their trade down from generation to generation, safeguarding the secrets and skill of their craft and thus preserving the uniqueness and individual characteristics of their creations. Over the centuries the influence of conquering populations has helped to refine Sardinian handicraft, but it has never betrayed its origins or identity.

Among the most interesting artisan products:

• Weaving and embroidery: visitors should not miss the magnificent blankets, rugs and tapestries, with their intricate designs and varieties of colour, as well as traditional Sardinian costumes, shawls and headscarves. The skilled craftsmen use ancient weaving and embroidery techniques to re-create traditional ornamental motifs;
  
  
  
• Carpentry: Skilled carpenters produce a wide range of furniture, such as chairs, tables and, of course, the famous wooden chests, as well as many other more simple objects, such as kitchen instruments;
  
  
  
• Basket Weaving: one of the most diffused handicrafts in Sardinia is unquestionably the art of weaving grasses, and visitors should not miss the wonderful baskets from Castelsardo. These artisan products are a favourite among visitors because of their fine appearance and range of shapes, sizes and colours;
  
  
  
• Ceramics: this artisan craft has been practised since ancient times and the beautiful Sardinian terracotta objects are appreciated all over Italy and abroad for their simple elegance and functionality;
  
  
  
• Metalwork: the working of both common and precious metals has ancient origins in Sardinia. One of the fine objects created from the most common metals is "Pattada" knife. It has been produced by skilled artisans for generations and has become a genuine collectors' item, both in Italy and abroad. Its particular features are recognised by experts all over the world. There are two distinct versions of the Pattada knife: the artisan Pattada knife, for collections, and the semi-artisan knife;
  
  
  
• Jewellery: The tradition of jewellery making was strictly linked to the creation of jewellery destined to adorn the elaborate Sardinian costumes, traditionally wore for festivals and weddings. However, today, this artisan craft has developed and skilled craftsmen produce a vast range of precious jewellery. One of the most famous and beautiful creations is the traditional Sardinian wedding ring, which is a unique piece of artwork. There are also gold and silver necklaces, bracelets and rings, exquisitely decorated with local coral, among the best quality to be found in the world, as well as jewellery in the magnificent red gold from Alghero.