Orune

Orune is a characteristic village in Nuoro area at 800 meters above the sea level, rich in archaeological sites and splendid naturalistic scenery.

Its name could derive from the Greek “horos”, mountain, due to its position between the peaks of three mountains.

The territory of Orune shows traces of habitation that date back to the Neolithic, as demonstrated by the megalithic structures of Istithi (dolmen) and Sas Predas’ Ittas (menhir).

About ten nuraghi and villages date back to the Nuragic age, such as that of Sant’Efis, a centre reoccupied in Roman times and dedicated to agriculture, livestock farming and thriving trade.

The archaeological excavations of Sassari and Nuoro Superintendency first and then of the University of Sassari have brought to light an exceptionally preserved site, rich in imported materials (African-produced ceramics), local ceramics and bronze objects. A precious glass tumbler engraved with a depiction of Christ and six apostles also comes from Sant’Efis.

To the end of the Bronze Age and the Iron Age date back the Nuragic sanctuaries linked to the cult of water: the sacred well of Lorana and the source of Su Tempiesu, exceptionally preserved thanks to a landslide which covered it and preserved it until the early years of the twentieth century.

The source, which opens onto the side of a schist wall, is dominated from above by the nuraghe of Santa Lulla. The tholos chamber where the spring water is collected is preceded by a vestibule with a double-pitched roof, originally crowned with votive bronze swords fixed into the stone thanks to small castings of lead.

Several bronze votive offerings were found in the well: rings, bracelets, pendants and small bronzes, including the presumed pair of shepherds offering an animal.

​