Sa Sartiglia

Name: Sa Sartiglia
Start: 2025-03-01
End: 2025-03-03
Location: Oristano

Carnival of Masks, Horses, and Medieval Magic in Oristano

2026/02/14 - 2026/02/16

Every February, the town of Oristano in Sardinia is enveloped in the excitement, vibrant colors, and mysterious allure of Sa Sartiglia. Held on the final Sunday and Tuesday of Carnival, this equestrian tournament is a dazzling spectacle that fuses centuries-old medieval ritual, bold horsemanship, and elaborate costumes. The scent of horses, dust, and sweet pastries fills the air as thousands of spectators hold their breath, watching masked riders display their courage and skill.

Sa Sartiglia is perfect for those who love tradition, thrills, and the enchanting atmosphere of a masked festival. Whether you’re a local, a Sardinian returning home, or a traveler, Sa Sartiglia invites you into a world of living folklore.

Main Attractions

The Star Joust (Corsa alla Stella)

The heart of the festival is the “Corsa alla Stella,” a thrilling horseback star-joust. Led by the enigmatic Su Componidori, masked riders gallop at full speed down a sand-covered street, aiming to pierce a tiny silver star suspended in the air with their swords. The sword flashes, the star clicks, and the ground shakes with the horses’ hooves—each successful strike is believed to bring good fortune to the town for the year.

Parade of Masks and Costumes

Before and after the joust, Oristano is adorned with a magnificent parade. Riders wear hand-sewn velvet jackets, embroidered shirts, sashes, and the iconic white mask that conceals all emotion. The rustle of silk, glimmer of gold thread, and mysterious expressionless masks create a magical, otherworldly atmosphere.

Equestrian Acrobatics (Pariglie)

In the afternoon, masked riders perform breathtaking acrobatics on horseback—forming human pyramids, leaping from horse to horse, and more. The thunder of hooves, the scent of leather and sand, and the sparkle of ribbons captivate audiences of all ages. It’s a highlight that excites both children and adults alike.

Traditional Food & Drink

During the festival, stalls offer Sardinian treats like sugar-dusted zippulas (fried dough), pardulas (ricotta and citrus pastries), roast pork, and rustic bread. Local Vernaccia wine and myrtle liqueur are favorites, and the sweet aromas and savory scents drift through the medieval streets.

Cultural and Historical Background

Sa Sartiglia’s origins date back to the Middle Ages or even earlier, blending Spanish, Moorish, and local traditions. Originally a celebration of the agricultural cycle and a test of knightly skill, it has become Oristano’s greatest festival. The half-mythical Su Componidori presides over the event, blessing the crowd and symbolizing the link between past and present, sacred and secular. For locals, Sa Sartiglia is a source of pride, identity, and a living bond with their ancestors.

Even today, thousands gather to watch and the festival is broadcast across Sardinia, but the rituals and secrets are still carefully guarded by the city’s guilds.

Participant Voices

I came from Milan just for Sa Sartiglia. A guild member explained the meaning behind the costumes and the blessings, and I could feel the pride in every detail as the whole city came together.

Fun Facts

Su Componidori (the festival’s main figure) is chosen in a secret ceremony and must never touch the ground while in costume—not even to eat or rest.
The origins are believed to date back before the 15th century.
The white mask symbolizes purity and the mysterious power of fate.
It is one of the few equestrian tournaments in Europe where women compete on equal terms with men.