Every year at the end of Carnival, normally in February in Oristano (west of Sardinia) a very ancient and characteristic horse race takes place. This medieval tournament has been going on for more than three centuries and every moment and every symbol is meaningful.

King of this tournament is one and is called “Su Cumponidori”, usually a man, he is dressed in public by beautiful women in traditional costumes. This ceremony called “Vestizione” transforms the man in a God of fertility not male nor female. Dressed now with a rich costume a mask and hat, he cannot touch the ground to preserve his purity.

 

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