The Sinjska Alka is a medieval competition held each year on the first Sunday in August in the town Sinj. It ‘s origin stems from a victory celebration over the Ottomans in the year 1715. The Alka itself is an equestrian competition in which various horsemen riding at full gallop aim their lances at a hanging metal ring (Alka), and are awarded points according to which sector of the ring they are able to pierce. The knights are all dressed in beautiful traditional costumes, and only men born in Sinj and surrounding villages are allowed to participate in the tournament.
The Museum of Alka in Sinj was opened on the 8th of August 2015 to celebrate 300 years of Sinjska Alka and can be visited all year round. The museum is located in the old barracks that were used for the housing of the cavalry, and besides the museum also houses a nice museum shop and conference room. The museum presents 300 years of tradition of the knightly Alka society and shows old Alka uniforms, weapons and used equipment all in a modern technological environment. Using multimedia technology visitors can relive the battle of Sinj in 1715. The Sinjska Alka is also recognized by UNESCO as a intangible cultural heritage.
In the museum you will be treated to the sounds of the Alka as well as the visual aspects. The knights are introduced with specific trumpet calls and also after striking the Alka the music of an orchestra sounds. The horses play a major role in the event as well, sounds of galloping hooves and their neighing brings you close to the event.
Opening hours
Tuesday – Sunday 09.00 – 19.00
Closed on Mondays and public holidays
Address
Put Petrovac 12, 21230 Sinj
Contact
Telephone +385 21 444730
E-mail muzej.alke@gmail.com
Website www.alka.hr
