In the region of Umbria, you may find archers dressed in medieval dress, raising their bows in competition. These historical re-enactments transport visitors to a bygone era as they are immersed in crowds of people dressed in traditional attire participating in various archery obstacles around the village.
In addition to these historical re-enactments, archery tournaments are common throughout the region, with master archers from all over the country coming to compete.
These tournaments have become an important piece of local tourism and are often paired with other events like flag-waving, dancing and medieval-inspired cuisine. The sport has a long history, where men were once required to practice regularly.
Though no longer required by law, many still actively participate today. Italy is known for its highly skilled archers who continuously win accolades at competitions around the world. Originally used to hunt, the bow was eventually used as a weapon of war and for protection. Over time the tool was replaced with modern warfare and was a forgotten sport in the Olympics, excluded until 1972.
Although it was forgotten in many parts of the world, it has continuously been practiced in Italy and remained a competitive sport for both men and women since the 1930s. For many master archers, archery is much more than a sport.
Many philosophers have referenced the bow, believing it to be the perfect symbol for life and self-awareness.
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