Sorso

Population:13,278
Altitude: 136 m. above sea level

The town of Sorso is situated in the region of Sassari and overlooks the enchanting gulf of the Asinara.
Its picturesque, historical town centre is particularly interesting. It is enriched by various architectural monuments of great historical and artistic value which were built between the end of the fifteenth century and the first half of the nineteenth century:

• The church of Santa Croce
  the church dates back to the XVII century, but is thought to have more ancient origins due to the presence of the many different architectural styles it reveals. Visitors can admire the remains of a beautiful gilt, wooden altar from the XVII century and a valuable wooden crucifix which dates back to the fifteenth century (according to the latest research carried out by the Monuments and Fine Arts Office).
  
  
  
• The Baronial Palace
  the palace was built in about 1550 by the Baron Don Vincenzo D'Amat and it stands
  in a strategic position on ancient ruins dating back to Roman times. It was damaged during the anti-feudal revolts of 1795 and was later restored by Pietro D'Amat. It was originally surrounded by roads paved in "triddhia" cobble-stones.
  
  
  
• The Billellera Fountain
  For almost 300 years the Billellera fountain has provided the main supply of drinking water for the inhabitants of Sorso. The name "Billellara" comes from "Elleboro", a plant which grew on the banks of streams and was used for its medical properties, in particular for the treatment of problems relating to the psyche.
  
  
  Visitors must not miss:
  
  
• The church of San Pantaleo
  The church is dedicated to the
  patron saint of Sorso. It was built in 1836/56 with the materials from the church of
  S. Giuliano according to a design by Brother A. Cano, on the site where the old Pisan parish church once stood. The church is divided into three aisles, each with ten columns. The square in front of the church is used for various religious and recreational events throughout the year.
  One of the most important festivals is celebrated in honour of the Patron Saint and is held on the 26/27 July.
  The event has always been greeted with great enthusiasm by the local people, but it has also become an important date for the many tourists who visit the area.
  
  
  

• The Nuragic Shrine of Serra Niedda
  This complex consists of a small sacred well and a vast isodomum structure. Excavation work lead to the discovery of three distinct areas used for worship, characterised by the presence of bronze votive material.
  
  

The town is particularly noted for its beautiful coastline, which stretches for over 18 km from Platamona to Punta Tramontana), and embraces the charming river mouth of the Silis river, the enchanting area of Platamona and the gulf of Asinara.

The gastronomic traditions of the area are still jealously preserved by the people of Sorso, who are very proud of their local specialities. Among the many delicious typical dishes visitors much try: "coratella" (offal) and "favata" (broad beans), dishes with snails and cauliflower, as well as the numerous kinds of sweets.
The area is rich in vineyards and boasts a remarkable
production of fine wines, such as red 'cannonau' and moscato.