(map) Rome
Horse lovers throughout Italy wait in anticipation throughout the year for what is simply known as Piazza di Siena, so called after the name of the equestrian arena in Rome’s Villa Borghese park where it takes place. It is a four day long, high level international horse jumping event, with teams from many countries participating.
That said, it is just as much one of Rome’s favorite society events. Everyone enjoys coming out and dressing up, seeing and being seen, and generally enjoying the Victorian-like context.
Further enhancing this feeling are the Caroselli on the final day. The Caroselli are beautifully coreographed equestrian performances by various mounted corps of the Carabinieri, decked out in full historical ceremonial uniforms.
The favorite however is the closing event, the re-enactment of a famous Carabinieri charge from a 1848 battle. What with sabers drawn, lances leveled, pennants flying, and the two sides (145 strong each) flying at full gallop against each other on enormous battle chargers, it’s a miracle a few officers don’t accidentally get skewered each year.
All in all good family fun, alla Romana (Roman style).
-- Contributed by GB (see bio), Editor, Italian Notebook.
May 28th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
We witnessed a tiny version of this at the beginning of Bomarzo’s Palio in April, and thought there must be some historical reference. We had less than a dozen men and it was thrilling, so Sienna’s version must be fabulous!
May 28th, 2009 at 3:31 pm
I would like to visit this event but no mention is made of the dates. Could you please advise when it is happening.
Thanks and regards
May 28th, 2009 at 3:49 pm
Hello Line’, it takes place in Rome the last weekend of May. This year it starts today, and ends Sunday May 31st.
May 28th, 2009 at 5:26 pm
I saw this event years ago when I first came to Rome to live, but it is still very fresh in my memory, especially that last final charge! As you say, it’s a wonder someone doesn’t get knocked off his horse, or run through by a passing rider! Truly memorable! Katherine S. Harris
May 28th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
I would have liked to see more and larger photos of this event.
May 28th, 2009 at 5:33 pm
Also maybe you could make clearer that this event takes place in Rome,NOT in Siena. The venue is in the Borghese Gardens in ROME.
May 28th, 2009 at 6:25 pm
This brings back childhood memories of beautiful horses, dashing riders, well-groomed men and women and polite clapping (so as not to scare the horses).
May 28th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
I have never seen this but reading the article as it is articulated sound so exciting. I would love to be able to see it. It is nice too that history is kept alive and from what I have been reading the Italians in Italy do a wonderful job at it. I feel like I have missed so much of my heritage. Nice to have this notebook to teach and keep us informed. Thank you. If anyone knows or finds a place to view such pictures and possibly a video I would love to know. Thank you, Angelina
May 29th, 2009 at 2:21 am
When is this event scheduled ?