This figure, standing 3.6 meters tall and weighing around 40 kilograms, was created with the involvement of residents from both municipalities and a master giant maker from Cardona, Toni Mujal. The design of Lussorio's face was done using artificial intelligence, as Sardinia prohibits the veneration of real people's images. The project received European funding to promote cross-border culture.
The connection between Oliana and Oliena dates back to the 1990s when a young Sardinian visited the Catalan town and was surprised by the name's similarity. This contact evolved into a friendship pact in 2013 and an official twinning in 2018. Since then, the two towns have collaborated in commercial, cultural, and festive areas, according to Oliana's mayor, Ricard Pérez.
The giant figure Lussorio, named after Saint Lussorio, a 4th-century Roman soldier and martyr from Sardinia, was officially unveiled during Oliana's 34th Gegantera Meeting. Oliena's traditional attire and Sardinian music, featuring the accordion prominently, have been fused with the Catalan giant repertoire to create a unique dance.
A group of young people from Oliena recently traveled to Oliana to learn how to carry the giant and perform the choreography, aiming to introduce this tradition to their town. The president of Oliana's Grup de Geganters i Grallers, Anna Vilana, highlighted the positive experience for both groups. Young Sardinian Bastiano Cucca values the cultural exchange, while his companion Cristian Calaresu notes the improved confidence in carrying the figure.
On September 11th, an expedition of 50 to 60 residents from Oliana will travel to Oliena with their five regular giants and the new Lussorio. During their stay, they will participate in the 30th-anniversary Cortes Apertas festivities, presenting a giant parade and a sardana performance.
