Montes

The Montes forest forms part of the mountain landscape of Orgosolo, between the Gennargentu and the limestone country of the Supramonte. Woodland, springs and traces of pastoral life give this territory its distinctive character.

Why it matters

The holm-oak woods of sas Baddes are a central feature of Montes. Maple, holly, yew and strawberry trees contribute to the forest mosaic, while the limestone towers of Monte Novo San Giovanni rise above the wooded slopes. The landscape brings together ecological habitats and a long history of human use.

What to notice

Funtana Bona is associated with the headwaters of the Cedrino. Elsewhere, archaeological remains such as Nuraghe Mereu and traditional pastoral shelters, known as pinnettos, connect the forest with successive ways of living in the mountains. Its habitats also support wildlife, including mouflon.

Context and history

The area entered public forest ownership in 1914. Woodland management, grazing and conservation have all shaped Montes, alongside the older archaeological and pastoral traces that remain part of its cultural landscape.