Ilbono among churches, festivals and landscapes

Ilbono combines sacred buildings, archaeological sites, traditional festivals and a landscape where trails lead to panoramic views. Added to this are typical specialities such as culurgiones, pistoccu bread and sebadas.

Churches, traditions and local culture

In the centre of Ilbono stands the parish church of San Giovanni Battista. It was built in the 17th century over what was probably an earlier Romanesque building. The rural churches of San Rocco and San Pietro near Ilbono have also yielded Roman finds. The church of San Cristoforo offers panoramic views across the whole of Ilbono.

An important local tradition is the Feast of Madonna delle Grazie, which Ilbono celebrates every year on the first Sunday in July. According to local tradition, the statue of Madonna delle Grazie was brought from the sea and transported from a beach to Ilbono on an ox-drawn cart.

Ilbono also has a tradition of artistic craftsmanship. The Sa Omu ‘e is Ducus Museum displays antique furnishings, traditional costumes, lace, embroidery and woven works.

Archaeology in a distinctive landscape

The archaeological area of Scerì lies on a granite tower partly surrounded by the Tèscere River and blends into its natural surroundings. The archaeological park includes a complex nuraghe with an attached structure, a village and two Domus de Janas.

From Tortolì, the archaeological area of Scerì can be reached via the SS 198 towards Lanusei. After approximately 5 kilometres, turn left before the Cantoniera Baunuxi onto a signposted road and follow it to a gate. The indication of approximately five kilometres refers to the turn-off before the Cantoniera Baunuxi.

Tarè, trails and panoramic views

Monte Tarè lies at an altitude of over 500 metres and forms a watershed between the sea and the coast of Bari Sardo and the inland area of Ilbono. The Tarè area is considered a zone of faunistic interest in Ilbono. Tarè can be reached via a trail offering impressive panoramic views.

An alternative hiking trail leads to the Parendaddai archaeological area near Ilbono and offers visitors an impressive panoramic view.

Festivals and specialities from Ilbono

The local cuisine is also part of the character of the town. Ilbono’s local food production includes culurgiones, pistoccu bread and sebadas, made according to typical recipes from Ilbono. The Sagra di Olio e Olive takes place every year in March.

Pane & Olio took place in Ilbono for the 22nd time in 2024 and for the 23rd time in 2025. At the 2023 edition, guided tours were offered to the craft producers and oil mills registered with the CCN.

Other places for planning your trip

Gairo Sant'Elena, Ulassai, Gairo, Santa Maria Navarrese, Marina Di Gairo, Arzana, Girasole, Triei

For the overarching travel overview: Ogliastra.