Today we stood shoulder to shoulder with thousands in the sun-soaked streets of Sinj, hearts pounding in time with the rhythm of galloping hooves. The annual Sinjska Alka – a UNESCO-listed knightly tournament dating back to 1715 – was in full swing, and the excitement was almost tangible.
One by one, the alkari thundered past, lances aimed at the alka – a small metal ring suspended ahead. At its center is the srida, the smallest opening and the most prized target. Hitting it is the ultimate challenge. And then came Frano Talaja in a breathtaking display of skill and focus, he struck the srida not once, not twice, but three times in a row. The crowd erupted, flags waved, and we embraced in pure celebration.
Why We Love the Alka ?
Being at the Alka is not just about watching a competition – it’s about stepping into a living story that has been told for over three centuries. It’s the proud faces in the crowd, the shimmer of richly embroidered uniforms in the summer sun, and the way the air vibrates with both history and anticipation.
For us, the Alka is a reminder of resilience, unity, and identity. It connects generations – from the elders who recall past champions to children wide-eyed at the sight of the charging horses. In that moment, you’re not just a spectator. You’re part of something bigger – a heartbeat that has been echoing through Sinj since 1715.
If you’re in Croatia in August, don’t just read about the Sinjska Alka. Be there. Feel it. Live it.