The succession of the seasons and the changing
climate conditions many years ago, when the islanders
subsisted mostly on livestock breeding and agriculture,
determined the periods when the shepherds
and farmers had to do less on the land and fields and
had more time for their families.
Many of the religious feasts, especially those which
are strongly characterised by pagan customs, take
place during these periods. This is also true of the most
popular feasts, such as the Sagra of the Holy Efisio in
Cagliari, the Sartiglia in Oristano, the Candelieri in
Sassari and perhaps the most peculiar of all feasts, the
carnival in Barbagia with sometimes awe-inspiring
disguises and wooden masks.
The Sardinians like to celebrate and a reason can
always be found.
