The “Monti Granatici” (or Monti Frumentari) in Sardinia were not geographical mountains, but ancient agricultural credit institutions established to protect small farmers. Their primary purpose was to lend grain and barley to poor peasants for sowing, preventing them from falling into the hands of local usurers during periods of famine. The borrowed grain was then paid back at harvest time with very low or no interest.
First established in the 17th century under Spanish rule by the Church, they were later reformed in 1767 by the Savoy government to ensure a widespread presence across the island. Today, many historic buildings that once stored the grain—such as the one in Serramanna—have been converted into cultural centers and exhibition spaces.