Cavalli & Cavalieri – Historical Carousel of the Carabinieri on Horseback (Real Sito di Carditello)

A Bourbon royal site brought back to life

Nestled in the Mazzoni plain, just a few kilometres from the Royal Palace of Caserta, the Real Sito di Carditello is one of the most fascinating spots in Campania. Originally commissioned by the Bourbons as a hunting estate and, more importantly, as a model farm for breeding the Royal Persano horses and livestock, this neoclassical complex—designed by Francesco Collecini, a pupil of Luigi Vanvitelli—suffered decades of neglect before being acquired by the State and reopened to the public. Today, the Fondazione Real Sito di Carditello brings it to life with a calendar of events, and Cavalli & Cavalieri is its signature manifestation: two days that restore the Real Sito to its original equestrian identity.

The Historical Carousel of the 4th Carabinieri Regiment on Horseback

The most anticipated moment is the Historical Carousel of the 4th Carabinieri Regiment on horseback, performed by the training unit of the «Pastrengo» Squadron Group and accompanied by the celebrated Mounted Fanfare. Rapid manoeuvres, complex weaves, and traditional carousel figures evoke glorious chapters in the history of the Carabinieri, in a performance that blends military precision, elegance, and spectacle. Everything takes place in the elliptical courtyard of the Real Sito, in front of the royal residence: a scenic backdrop that is hard to match, making this one of the most appreciated equestrian shows in Southern Italy.

Historical re-enactments, flag-wavers, and costumed dances

Surrounding the carousel is a programme of historical re-enactments involving associations and performers in period attire: nobles, Bourbon soldiers, ladies, and dancers transport visitors back to the 18th-century Neapolitan court. In addition to the equestrian performances, there are flag-wavers, historical dances, and theatrical interludes throughout the day, designed to accompany guided tours of the palace rooms.

• Equestrian carousel and Fanfare of the 4th Carabinieri Regiment on horseback
• Performers in 18th-century costumes and re-enactments of the Bourbon court
• Flag-waver performances and historical dances
• Special tours of the royal residence and museum areas

Tastings, picnic area, and local products

The event is also an opportunity to discover the flavours of Campania Felix: food and wine stands set up in the park offer typical products from the province of Caserta, from buffalo mozzarella to local wines, while the picnic area allows you to spend the entire day outdoors among the lawns of the Real Sito. It is a formula that has won over families, as it allows for a mix of entertainment, cultural visits, and convivial breaks without ever leaving the estate.

A free event, open to all

The equestrian show and the carousel are free and open to the public: a deliberate choice by the Foundation, which aims to introduce Carditello to new audiences, particularly the younger generations. Special tours of the museum area and table reservations in the picnic area remain paid, with affordable rates. Internal parking is free, though not guarded.

Carditello, San Tammaro, and Campania

The Real Sito is located in the Municipality of San Tammaro, in the province of Caserta, in the heart of Campania, about fifteen kilometres from the Royal Palace of Caserta and just over thirty from Naples. The event strengthens the bond between the Real Sito and the Carabinieri, who are committed to protecting a territory that has faced difficult environmental challenges in recent years and is now relaunching its image by focusing on heritage, legality, and cultural tourism. For those visiting Campania, Cavalli & Cavalieri is the ideal opportunity to combine a visit to the great Vanvitellian palace of Caserta, the Campanian amphitheatre of Santa Maria Capua Vetere, and the Bourbon countryside of Carditello in a single weekend.