The Church of Nostra Signora di Castro, located in Oschiri, is a fascinating example of Sardinian Romanesque architecture, whose history is intrinsically linked to its geographical and historical context. Its evocative name derives from its proximity to the remains of an ancient Roman fort, whose Latin term 'castrum' not only baptised the sacred building, but also gave its name to the entire medieval diocese of which the church was the cathedral.
This designation as episcopal seat is particularly intriguing considering the relatively modest size of the building. This apparent contradiction offers interesting insights into the ecclesiastical and social dynamics of medieval Sardinia, suggesting the possibility of a complex web of historical, political and religious factors that influenced the choice of this structure as a diocesan centre.
From a chronological point of view, the construction of the church is placed around the middle of the 12th century, a period of great architectural ferment in Sardinia, characterised by the establishment of the Romanesque style on the island. This temporal positioning places Nostra Signora di Castro in a context of stylistic and technical evolution of Sardinian sacred architecture.
The external appearance of the church is characterised by an architecturally interesting façade.