The essential part of many traditional festivals in Italy is a competition of flag throwing, performed by groups of “sbandieratori “.

The art of flag throwing dates to medieval battles. The most important figure on the battlefield was the flag bearer, who’s duty was to defend the flag and, if in danger, throw it accurately to the hands of another trustworthy fighter. Over the years, throwing the flag became a ceremonial art form and more than 80 Italian towns have their own group of sbandieratori wearing medieval or renaissance costumes and carrying their unique flags.

Sbandieratori train from childhood to perfect the art and their acrobatic skills. The groups are always accompanied by their own bands of drums and trumpets and, also, by numerous fans, who travel even long distances to warm up their favorites.