9. Su Ballu

Inside the courtyard of Sa Domo de Sas Artes e de Sos Mestieris, Federica and Mauro take the lead in the dance, followed by Francesca and Pier Nicola a few minutes later. All four of them are wearing the traditional attire of Loculi.

The dance they are performing is called Su Ballu sardu, which refers to the traditional folk dances of Sardinia. The origins of Sardinian dance are shrouded in mystery. It is believed to have originated from ancient sacred ceremonies performed to seek abundant hunting or a good harvest, representing not only entertainment but also a collective expression. The most widespread Sardinian dances include Su Ballu Tundu (the circular dance), Su Passu Torrau (the repeated step), and Su Ballu Seriu (the serious dance).

Su Ballu has been passed down orally for generations within the family and social context. Since the late 1990s, the role of preserving, teaching, and communicating the dance has been taken on by folk groups throughout Sardinia. They play a crucial role in various events, celebrations, and festivities on the island.

In Loculi, there is the Gruppo Folk Sa Defessa. Their dance movements are emphasized by the vibrant colors of the traditional attire, which reflect the historical Sardinian clothing that was worn in the past.

Various types of traditional attire existed, including everyday wear and elegant clothing for special occasions. Women typically wore only a shirt and skirt, and in the case of widowhood, they would dye the components of their clothing black as a sign of mourning.

In Loculi, some original female outfits have been preserved, while only a few items of male clothing remain. Traditional female attire was worn until the 1930s-1940s, and later, it was reserved for weddings. It consists of several elements described below:

• Su Muccatore: A square maroon handkerchief worn on the head. It is adorned with floral embroidery made using golden thread, sequins, and beads. It is worn folded into a triangle, with the edges crossed under the chin and secured behind the ears;
• Sa Camisa: A white cotton shirt with embroidery on the collar, chest, and cuffs. The fabric is pleated with stylized and geometric motifs. Other embroidery decorates the neckline, cuffs, and sleeves. Silver and gold-plated buttons fasten the collar;
• Su Casseddu: A sleeveless white cotton undershirt with cutout embroidery;
• Su Zistillu: A small black and purple velvet vest with floral patterns on a green background. It is trimmed with lilac ribbon and finished at the back with black and red cotton trim. It is fastened at the front with a small lace;
• Su Zippone: A black silk jacket with purple floral motifs. It is bordered with multicolored cotton trim. The lining is printed pink cotton. It is open at the front and has wide sleeves that reveal the shirt cuffs;
• Sa Vardetta: Worn over a white cotton underskirt with lace trim, it is a black pleated skirt made of orbace fabric. The waist is bordered with bordeaux velvet, and it features a wide brocade ruffle in bordeaux with white floral patterns. It is bordered with golden trim, which also decorates the waistband and two front openings.

For the description of the traditional male attire of Loculi, please refer to photo 10.