Sbandieratori

The Italian Sbandieratori (Flag Wavers)

A Brief History of Flag Waving

(You can see a video of the Italian Sbandieratori here.)

Flags have been used since early history to indicate different groups, whether military or not, and as a decoration for different types of celebrations. We have historical evidence of the use of flags since the times of Babylonia and throughout time, armies would use them to distinguish themselves from other nations and would cherish them as a symbol of identity.

Nowadays, flag waving is very popular in Italy. Every town and village has its own historical re-enactments taking place every year, to celebrate their history and show their cultural heritage through parades, shows and food. These are the occasions during which you can admire wandering characters with elegant Medioeval clothing and experience dance, shows and music from the past.

The Italian Sbandieratori (Flag Wavers) are present at these events and make their own performances showing people their ability in waving their flags. Each town has their own group, and some of them are more popular and travel throughout Italy, Europe and the rest of the world for their shows. Flag waving competitions are organised every year in Italy and attended by thousands of people. There is an official national tournament with more than 100 cities participating every year.

 The most important (and heart-felt) competitions, however, are the ones in which groups of flag wavers from the same town challenge each other to win their Palio (a banner awarded to the winner of a competition).

The Flag Wavers we will host in Wellington are from the city of Faenza, in the Emilia Romagna region. They proudly boast a very long flag waving tradition with 30 Italian Tournaments won in the last 45 years.