The world of traditional poetry is mourning the passing of Bernardo Zizi, the prophet of extemporaneous poetry, who passed away this morning at the age of 97.

Born in Onifai in 1928 and a lifelong resident of Macomer, Zizi has had a successful career throughout the island, often in the company of the duo Mario Masala and Antonio Pazzola, bringing Sardinian poetry to squares throughout the region.

The mayor of Onifai, Luca Monne, announced his death on his Facebook page, commenting: "This news leaves us shocked and saddened. A legend has passed away, a living monument to poetry, a powerful and free voice for Sardinia, for Onifai."

The mayor added: "Just recently, with fellow administrators, we were imagining plans and opportunities to meet him again, to invite him to share his story. Onifai would have liked to hug him again, and I would have liked to hug him again."

Recalling Bernardo's strong connection to his hometown, Monne clarified: "Bernardo lived in Macomer, but his heart has always been here, where it all began. Here his artistic roots were born and developed, bringing our town's name to the world."

Among the numerous comments left under the post, Monne expressed the community's condolences to Zizi's family, concluding : "A master has left us, an idol for entire generations of Sardinians, a man capable of uniting tradition and freedom, words and identity, pride and humility. We will miss him immensely."