Arbus

Arbus is a territory with a name of uncertain origin, which could derive from the Latin albus, referring to the light color of the mountain rocks; from arburis, for the ancient abundance of trees; or from arabus, linked to barbarian invasions along its coasts. More certain and deeply rooted, however, is its artisanal tradition, particularly the crafting of curved-blade knives, the is arresoias arburesas, a symbol of manual skill and local identity.

The municipality of Arbus covers one of the largest areas in Italy, second only in Sardinia to Sassari, occupying a vast territory in the central-southwest of the island. Its coastline stretches for about 47 kilometers and is among the most striking in Sardinia, alternating wide golden sand beaches, tall dunes shaped by the wind, and cliffs overlooking crystal-clear waters.

This coastal area is known as the Costa Verde, a wild and pristine landscape where some of the tallest dunes in Europe descend toward waters of intense azure and emerald green. Behind the sea, Mediterranean vegetation shaped by the mistral wind forms unique scenes, with centuries-old junipers bent close to the ground.

Arbus is a destination for those who love authentic, unconventional places, far from mass tourism, where hospitality is simple and genuine, deeply connected to Sardinian lifestyle and direct contact with nature. In this context, the presence of local biodiversity custodians plays a fundamental role: Atzeni Pietro, who safeguards the Sardo-Modicana cow, the Sardinian goat, and the Black sheep of Arbus; Schirru Monica and Schirru Roberto, custodians of the Sardo-Modicana cow; Casti Sebastiano for the Sardinian donkey; Lampis Mauro and Sandro, Saba Monica, Isu Paolo, and Dessì Ignazio, engaged in protecting the Black sheep of Arbus, with Saba Monica also active in safeguarding the Sardinian goat; and Pala Gabriella, custodian of the Sardinian goat. Thanks to their dedication, a valuable livestock heritage continues to live on, preserving and telling the deep identity of this territory.