Burcei

Situated at 648 meters above sea level, Burcei is the highest municipality in southern Sardinia. Nestled among the Serpeddì, Genis, and Sette Fratelli mountains, it overlooks a landscape stretching from the Gulf of Cagliari to the emerald waters of Sarrabus. Surrounded by forests, rugged peaks, and clear springs, it preserves an unspoiled natural environment, with snowy winters and fresh air year-round.Burcei’s origins date back to the Nuragic era, as shown by the many nuraghi in the area. In the Middle Ages, the settlement of Santa Maria Paradiso was home to farmers and shepherds. After a period of abandonment, the village was revived in 1655 by families fleeing the plague, and in 1692 with Giacomo Ortu’s symbolic act on behalf of the Marquis of Quirra.Today, Burcei is known across the island for its cherries, olives, and grapes, as well as for its strong agro-pastoral traditions. The summer festivals of Santa Barbara and Santa Maria di Monserrat, the town’s patron saint, celebrate the deep connection between past and present.