“The Sulmona Joust of Chivalry is more than just an event: it is an overwhelming thrill, an experience full of pathos, suspense and adventure. This fascinating spectacle enchants and engages every spectator, transporting them into a world of epic, chivalric stories.”
This is how the XXVIII edition of this event is presented to the public, which is a true historical reenactment: the Boroughs and Sestieri of Sulmona compete in the field of Piazza Maggiore (today Piazza Garibaldi) represented by Knights, who face each other in a unique ring joust because it takes place within the historic center, the beating heart of the city.
On July 27 and 28 , the competition will kick off in a spectacular field, preceded by a sumptuous parade in Renaissance costume led by Queen Giovanna D’Aragona (played this year by Adriana Volpe) and composed of ladies, knights, armigers, flag-wavers and clarion players, who will perform scenic renditions for the enjoyment of the audience attending the tournament.
The actual competition consists of a knightly tournament in Garibaldi Square, transformed for the occasion into a spectacular competition field, with the riders galloping along the course attempting to thread rings of different diameters with their lances, which hang from silhouettes located along the course. The score is calculated according to the number of rings threaded, and in case of a tie, the time taken will prevail. The clashes are direct and at the end of the first stage the four riders with the best time will compete for the final victory and the coveted“Palio,” a prize made from time to time by Italian and foreign artists. Once again this year the Jousting Cultural Association reaffirms its full commitment to the respect and welfare of animals: in fact, the use of spurs and whips have been banned for years.
The festive atmosphere will continue until Aug. 3, when the Joust of Europe and the Joust of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy will take place: unique in its kind, the Joust engages Knights from those European cities where there is a chivalric tradition.
Among the event’s sponsors is Toto Holding, a forward-looking business entity that is always in the front row to lend its support in carrying on Abruzzo’s traditions.
