Sardinian brown cow

Arzachena is a town in Gallura, located about 25 kilometers from Olbia, characterized by a vast and varied territory that alternates between stunning beaches, vineyard-covered hills, striking granite landscapes, and significant archaeological sites. It has around 14,000 residents in the winter months, but an equivalent number of beds, reflecting its strong tourism vocation and steady demographic and economic growth.

The name Arzachena is closely linked to the Costa Smeralda, a symbol of elite tourism that emerged in the 1960s and became internationally renowned. Alongside luxury tourism, the local economy also relies on nautical activities, granite extraction—a distinctive element of the historic center’s architecture—and a solid wine tradition, particularly the production of Vermentino di Gallura.

From the small nucleus that grew around the Church of Santa Maria until the 17th century, the urban center has evolved into a harmonious combination of squares, pink granite and limestone facades, flowered corners, and green spaces animated by artisan workshops, boutiques, and local cafés. The municipal territory also includes historic Gallurese stazzi, often converted into agritourisms and B&Bs, and numerous hamlets such as Abbiadori, Baja Sardinia, Cannigione, Poltu Quatu, and Porto Cervo.

Within this rich and dynamic context, the protection of local biodiversity plays a key role. In Arzachena, several custodians safeguard traditional animal breeds and agricultural varieties: Santino Filippeddu, custodian of the Arrubia almond and Cossu; Santino Filippeddu also oversees the Sardo-Modicana cow, Sardinian donkey, and Sardinian pig; Luca Piasotti, protecting the Sardo-Modicana and Sardo-Bruna cows; Caterina Marchetti, custodian of the Sardinian donkey and the Asinara donkey; Pasqua Abeltino, safeguarding the Giara horse and Sardinian donkey; and Fabiola Pusceddu, custodian of the Sardinian pig. Thanks to their efforts, this invaluable heritage continues to be preserved and enhanced, maintaining Arzachena’s identity and cultural legacy.

Laconi is a picturesque inland village in Sardinia, located in the historic region of Sarcidano at the foot of the Gennargentu massif. Nestled in a landscape of hills, forests, and natural springs, it is known for its green and peaceful character—ideal for those wishing to discover a Sardinia far from the sea but rich in charm, history, and spirituality.

At the heart of the village lies Parco Aymerich, one of Sardinia’s most beautiful historic gardens. Covering over twenty hectares, it features centuries-old holm oaks, exotic plants, streams, waterfalls, and paths leading to the ruins of a medieval castle, offering an immersive experience in both nature and historic landscape.

Laconi is deeply connected to Saint Ignatius of Laconi, one of the island’s most venerated saints, born here in the 18th century. The sanctuary and other sites dedicated to him attract numerous pilgrims every year, making Laconi an important center for religious tourism. The historic center retains an authentic atmosphere, with stone houses, quiet streets, and notable churches, while the surrounding territory is rich in ancient archaeological evidence.

Alongside its natural and cultural heritage, Laconi plays an important role in biodiversity conservation. Local guardians work to preserve native animal breeds: Ignazio Cogoni, breeder and custodian of the Sardinian cow and the Sardo-Bruna cow, and Claudia Cogoni, guardian of the Sardinian donkey. Their work helps safeguard a valuable genetic heritage and keeps alive the agro-pastoral traditions that form a fundamental part of the local identity.