The numerous palios using animals – mostly horses – held in Italy every year have always been defended on the grounds of an alleged respect for traditions.
Palios are historical festivals, involving some athletic competition, which are regularly held in many Italian towns. They don’t necessarily involve the use of animals, but in some cases the centrepiece of the palio is a horse or donkey race through streets which are completely unsuitable for equines to run on. In recent years, dozens of animals have died in these events.
Nopalio.it promotes the idea that traditions must evolve alongside the growth of awareness, and that animals should not suffer to generate business and provide entertainment.
An international petition has been launched which demands that we put an end to the use of animals in palios.
Read more on the IHP website
