This
game, taking place on the day of S. Jacopino's feast - the patron
saint of the town - was born under the name of Palio dei Berberi
(Berber's Palio). Its name derives from the precious texture which
was the reward of the winner of the Berber horse race.
These horses were ridden at full gallop through the town streets.
After
World War I, S. Jacopo's Palio became "Giostra dell'Orso"
(Baer's Joust) and the whole competition was given a new configuration:
the race is now held on a round track, where not only the horse's
speed but also the rider's skill is emphasized.
