VIDEO / Accident in the center of Sinj: Alkar horses slipped and fell on Pijaca

Two horses slipped and fell during the traditional calling of guests at the Sinjska Alka festival on Sunday, causing concern among attendees but leaving no serious injuries, according to reports. The incident occurred on the Piazza in the heart of Sinj, a historic town in Croatia's Dalmatian region known for its annual Alka festival, which celebrates local heritage with a series of competitions involving horse-drawn carriages. The video footage, widely shared on social media, shows one horse losing its footing first, followed by the second horse slipping and collapsing onto the pavement. The sudden fall startled the crowd gathered for the event, drawing gasps and murmurs from both locals and visitors. Despite the alarming nature of the scene, authorities confirmed that neither animal suffered major harm, and the situation was quickly brought under control. The incident took place during the traditional procession, a key part of the Sinjska Alka celebrations. This year’s festival, held in late October, attracted thousands of spectators who filled the Piazza to witness the ceremonial calls to guests and the subsequent competitions. The procession involves decorated carriages pulled by horses, a practice rooted in centuries-old customs. The horses are typically well-trained for such events, though unpredictable conditions can sometimes lead to accidents. Local residents described the moment as unexpected but not uncommon given the large crowds and the nature of the event. “It’s always tense when so many people are around the horses,” said one spectator. “But I’m glad nothing worse happened.” Others expressed relief that the animals were unharmed, emphasizing the importance of safety measures during such public gatherings. The Sinjska Alka festival has been held annually since 1893, with the exception of World War II years. It is considered one of the most important cultural events in Croatia, attracting participants and visitors from across the country and beyond. The festival includes a variety of activities, including the famous Alka competition, where teams race horse-drawn carriages through a course marked by wooden posts. The event is deeply embedded in the town’s identity and draws attention from tourism officials and historians alike. Authorities have not yet commented publicly on the incident, but local officials confirmed they are reviewing protocols to ensure similar situations are minimized in the future. The organizers of the festival emphasized their commitment to maintaining high safety standards, particularly for the animals involved. They stated that all participants undergo rigorous training before the event and that emergency procedures are in place should anything go wrong. Veterinary experts noted that while the horses appeared to recover quickly, close monitoring would be necessary to assess any potential long-term effects from the fall. They recommended that handlers check for signs of injury, such as lameness or swelling, and provide appropriate care if needed. The incident has sparked discussions within the equestrian community about the risks associated with public performances involving animals and the need for continued vigilance. The Sinjska Alka festival will continue as scheduled, with the remainder of the events proceeding without disruption. Organizers have assured attendees that all precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of both humans and animals throughout the remaining days of the celebration. As the festival progresses, the focus remains on honoring tradition while adapting to modern safety concerns.