Salta al contenuto
San Marino Città · 24°C
IT EN
Republic of San Marino
San Marino.
Military tradition · 14th century

The
Crossbowmen

They are the oldest Sammarinese military formation: the earliest records date from the fourteenth century. Today they live on as a folk tradition. Since 1965 they have trained in the Crossbowmen's Quarry; the Federazione Sammarinese Balestrieri was established the following year.

Documented from
14th c.
Federation
1966
Active members
70+

Source: Federazione Sammarinese Balestrieri · federazionebalestrieri.sm

Sammarinese crossbowmen competing in the Crossbowmen's Quarry
§ I — The historic formation

From the walls to the palio

The first mention of a corps of Sammarinese crossbowmen dates back to the fourteenth century. In the records of the time the role is twofold: defence of the city walls and public order. Over time, the defensive function gives way to tradition, and crossbow shooting becomes a cultural element in the ceremonial calendar of the Republic.

§ II — The modern revival

1965, the Quarry

In 1965 the Crossbowmen's Quarry is inaugurated, a space dedicated to crossbow training. The following year, in 1966, the Federazione Sammarinese Balestrieri is founded. The Federation joins the Italian Crossbowmen Federation, alongside the historic groups of Gubbio, Sansepolcro, Massa Marittima and Lucca.

§ III — The groups within

Not just archers

Sections of the Federation
Group Function
CrossbowmenCrossbow shooting in competitions and demonstrations
Flag-throwersFlag displays, ceremonial accompaniment
MusiciansDrums and trumpets for the parade and the contests
Historic ProcessionTwo banner-bearers, Castelli ensign-bearers, dignitaries and ladies
Master ArtisansConstruction of crossbows in wood and metal

The Statutes explicitly cite the palio of Crossbowmen and Arquebusiers. The Federation's appearances form part of the Medieval Days and other events in the Sammarinese calendar, with titles and prizes won also beyond the borders of the Republic.

FAQ · Useful answers

Frequently asked questions

Since when have crossbowmen existed in San Marino?
From the fourteenth century: the earliest records document a corps of crossbowmen tasked with defending the city walls and maintaining public order.
When was the Federation founded?
In 1966. The previous year (1965) the Crossbowmen's Quarry had been inaugurated as a dedicated training ground.
How many members are there?
Over 70 effective members, in a Federation that also includes a flag-throwers group, the Musicians, the Historic Procession and the Master Artisans who build crossbows.
Does it belong to Italian federations?
Yes. The Federazione Sammarinese Balestrieri (San Marino Crossbowmen Federation) is part of the Italian Crossbowmen Federation, alongside the historic groups of Gubbio, Sansepolcro, Massa Marittima and Lucca.
Where is the Crossbowmen's Quarry?
In City of San Marino, inside the historic centre, at the foot of the Three Towers.