History

The term Sartiglia originates from the Castilian word Sortilla, which in turn derives from the Latin Sorticula, meaning “ring” and also “Sors” or “luck.” Sartiglia revolves around knights attempting to hit a target, the star, thereby challenging fate.
The origins of Sartiglia trace back centuries. In the 11th century, military games were introduced in Europe to train militias. Over time, these competitions evolved, and by the 15th and 16th centuries, equestrian races lost their military significance and became public spectacles. These events were organized by kings, viceroys, feudal lords, and trade guilds to celebrate occasions such as royal appointments, the birth of heirs, or liturgical festivals. Nobles actively participated, while the public enjoyed the grand displays.
The earliest records of Sartiglia are found in a council register in the city’s Historical Archive, dated 1547-48. It references a Sortilla organized in honor of Emperor Charles V, likely in 1546. Subsequent documents describe the city authorities purchasing wooden swords for the race from a carpenter’s workshop. This detail suggests that during the Spanish era, the municipal authorities likely organized the event, which was later entrusted to local guilds.