Ardia

The Ardia is the largest festival in Sedilo, a village near Oristano. The Ardia is an ostentatious horse race that takes place in the afternoon of July 6th and morning of the 7th in honor of Constantine's victory of Maxentius. The race features three riders ("Pandele") who represent Constantine and his generals, followed by an armed squadron of riders whose job is to protect the riders from the other participants who represent the enemy. After the race, the priest of Sedilo holds Mass in the Church of San Constantino, after which the crowds return to town to enjoy traditional food and live music.

The Ardia, or S'Ardia, is one of the most important events in Sardinia and has been held since times immemorial to celebrate Constantine’s victory over Maxentius at the famous Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312AD. First, there are three knights (known as “Pandele”) who carry white, red, and yellow banners. They’re followed by three knights whose job is to defend the riders with lances. They start at the top of the hill and ride at full gallop down the hill to a victory arch. The speeds they reach are really impressive. The whole thing lasts around a half an hour. The public is in a jovial state throughout the race and shouts of encouragement are heard all over.