Sinjska Alka is a costumed equestrian competition that is held to commemorate the victory of a small Croatian-Venetian army over the outnumbered forces of the Ottoman empire in 1715. It takes place in the town of Sinj on the first Sunday of August. Sinjska Alka was inscribed in UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage lists since it is the only remaining example of the medieval knightly competitions that were regularly held in Croatian coastal towns until the nineteenth century. It has become a marker of local history and a medium for transferring collective memories from one generation to the next.
Competition Program & Rules
Prior to the competition, there's a formal parade involving several columns of traditionally dressed men marching in unison, with some playing drums and brass instruments. Another group of men, one of which is the Alka Knights Society flag bearer, follows the troops on horses. The shield bearer, mace bearers, and Edek, a symbolic horse without a rider, continue this fascinating march. The Duke and the commander of troops are the last in the procession.
During the competition, horsemen ride at full gallop and aim their lances at a hanging metal ring, which is called "alka". They get points depending on which sector of the ring they are able to hit. The bottom sections are worth 1 point, the top section is worth 2 points, and the central section is worth 3 points. Another ceremony follows the announcement of the winner, which is signaled by a gunshot fired into the air.
Participants
Only men born in the city of Sinj and the surrounding area can participate in this authentic competition. Another requirement is to be involved in the Alka Knights Society in Sinj. It is considered a great honour to take part in Sinjska Alka. The most important and respected local men will be selected to become a vojvoda or commander of Alka. The costumes worn by participants resemble those of the 18th-century horsemen.
Location in Sinj & Schedule
The tournament is annually held in Sinj, the town in southeastern Croatia, in the Split-Dalmatia County. The town boasts impressive historical architecture, scenic landscapes and strong cultural roots. Alka doesn't only mean the object used in the tournament, but it's also the name of the 160m long racecourse in the center of Sinj, where the competition itself is held. The event is set to begin at 4:30 pm.
Origins of Sinjska Alka
The tradition of holding the Sinjska Alka competition emerged in the early 18th century to continue knightly competitions that were held across the Venetian Dalmatia area. It is mentioned in the sonnets of Italian poet Julije Bajamonti in 1784.
