Uomini & Cavalli - Western Spirit Pro Rodeo

The Far West in the heart of Sabina

Every summer since 2005, the town of Scandriglia, a village in the province of Rieti nestled at the foot of the Monti Lucretili Regional Natural Park, transforms into a small American frontier. Uomini & Cavalli - Western Spirit Pro Rodeo is the equestrian event conceived by Bruno Borgia and organized by the Pro Loco Scandriglia. Over three days in early August, it celebrates the age-old bond between man and horse by bringing together two worlds: the tradition of the butteri (Italian cowboys) of the Lazio and Sabina Maremma and the Western and rodeo culture from across the ocean.

The setting is the Razza della Rocca Equestrian Center, located along the Via Salaria (at the junction 40 km from Rome), where an authentic Western village with a saloon, an Indian village, performance areas, and themed food stalls are set up for the occasion. The atmosphere is that of a true frontier town: country dancing, hats and boots, grilled meats, and live music until late at night.

Rodeo, butteri, and vaulting champions

The heart of the event lies in Western disciplines and equestrian performances. Throughout the days, rodeo and Western riding competitions, Western gymkhana, liberty horse exhibitions, and demonstrations of skill by the butteri of Scandriglia and the Lazio Maremma take place, joined by local equestrian groups such as the Cavalieri di Cottanello. Evenings culminate in night-time equestrian galas, which over the years have brought some of the best Italian artists and athletes to Sabina: vaulting champions like Alessandro Conte, dressage specialists, and acrobatic equestrian show troupes.

The quality of the lineup has earned the event national recognition: in April 2026, in Rome, Uomini & Cavalli received the 2026 Senofonte Award with an Honorable Mention in the «Horses Among the People» category, cementing its status as one of the top national equestrian festivals for its ability to bring equestrian entertainment to the general public.

A festival for the whole family

Uomini & Cavalli is designed for all ages, with special attention to families. Children can enjoy their first time in the saddle, try their hand at archery in the Indian village, participate in themed workshops and games, and experience tree climbing. There is also a mechanical bull for the brave, while stands showcasing the equestrian world and Western crafts complete the visitor experience.

Frontier and Sabina flavors

The culinary side unites the two worlds of the festival at the table: the Western Saloon and the steakhouse offer grilled meats and Tex-Mex specialties, while the Osteria dei Butteri brings back the flavors of Sabina cuisine and local peasant traditions. All this is accompanied by country music, DJ sets, and dance evenings.

A staple of the Sabina summer

Reaching its twenty-second edition in 2026, the event is now one of the most established and appreciated equestrian gatherings in Lazio, attracting enthusiasts and curious visitors from across the region and beyond every year. For Scandriglia and the Rieti Sabina area, it is also a precious showcase: a way to promote the Monti Lucretili Park territory, its breeding farms, and a horse culture that here is not imported folklore, but a living tradition.