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Flag throwers
performing in the main piazza of Cortona
Flag throwing (or flag tossing) is often a
major part of the historical costume festivals that are one of the great
attractions of Tuscany and, indeed, of all Italy. The performers,
known as sbandieratori, usually young men but with an
increasing number of young ladies taking part, dress in mediaeval
costume and are usually accompanied by drummers (tamburi)
and sometimes also trumpeters (trombettieri). Skills range
from good to truly excellent. The younger participants engage in
synchonised flag waving through tossing and catching their own flags,
while the truly skilled carry out amazing and beautiful exercises
involving simultaneously throwing two flags to two partners in
their team.
Check our events calendar for any kind of festival taking place
during your stay in Tuscany and with a bit of luck you'll be able
to enjoy watching the sbandieratori performing.
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