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Ottana

Otzana
Comune di Ottana
The church of San Nicola, Ottana
The church of San Nicola, Ottana
Country Italy
Region Sardinia
Province Nuoro (NU)
Frazioni Etfas
Area
 • Total 45.2 km2 (17.5 sq mi)
Elevation
185 m (607 ft)
Population
 (1 January 2009)
 • Total 2,431
 • Density 53.78/km2 (139.30/sq mi)
Demonym(s) Ottanesi
Time zone UTC+1 (CET)
 • Summer (DST) UTC+2 (CEST)
Postal code
08020
Dialing code 0784

Ottana (Sardinian: Otzàna) is a small, interesting town in Sardinia, an island region of Italy. It's located about 110 kilometers (68 miles) north of Cagliari and 25 kilometers (15 miles) southwest of Nuoro. This town is home to around 2,400 people and is known for its unique traditions and history.

Ottana shares its borders with several other towns, including Bolotana, Noragugume, Olzai, Orani, Sarule, and Sedilo.

Exploring Ottana's Unique Culture

The town of Ottana is especially famous for its traditional Carnival celebrations. During Carnival, people wear amazing and sometimes scary costumes with special masks.

Traditional Carnival Masks

The most well-known masks are worn by characters called the Boes, Merdules, and Filonzana. These masks and costumes are a big part of the local culture and attract visitors from all over. They tell stories through their dances and movements during the festivities.

The Church of San Nicola

Ottana is also home to a beautiful old church called San Nicola. This church was built in the Romanesque style, which means it has thick walls, round arches, and often simple, strong designs. It's a significant historical building in the town.

Ottana's Church History

For many centuries, Ottana was an important religious center. It used to be the seat of a bishop, which means it had a special church district called a bishopric.

The Ottana Bishopric

In the year 1110, a bishopric was established in Ottana. This meant that a bishop lived and worked here, guiding the local church. However, on December 8, 1503, the bishopric of Ottana was closed. Its territory became part of a new church district, the Diocese of Alghero.

Honorary Bishop Title

Much later, in October 2004, the title of "Bishop of Ottana" was brought back, but only as an honorary title. This means that certain bishops are given the title of "Titular Bishop of Ottana" as a special honor, even though there isn't a working bishopric in Ottana anymore.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Ottana para niños

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