Episode 134

Dobra večer, slušatelji!

It’s our favourite time of the year!

Yes, the transition from summer to autumn is here.

In this lesson we’ll review older material and learn some new words and phrases.

Spremaj te se!

Lesson

Summer - ljeto

Autumn - jesen

hot - vruće

Humid - vlažno

Cool - hladno

Rain - kiša

In summer it’s hot and humid. - Ljeti je vruće i vlažno.

Summer is over, autumn has arrived. - Ljeto je prošlo, jesen je stigla!

Autumn is cool and rainy. - Jesen je hladna i kišna. 

Super Slatko Report

In this edition of the Super Slatko Report, DJ Moe will tell us about the Sinjska Alka. This annual equestrian tournament is one of Croatia’s most popular events. The who’s who of Hrvatska will be there! Join us, as well!

The Sinjska Alka is a historic equestrian tournament held annually in the town of Sinj, Croatia. This deeply rooted tradition has been celebrated for centuries and is one of the most important cultural and historical events in the region. It combines both sport and tradition, with strong patriotic undertones that speak to their long history of resistance and survival. The tournament serves not only as a competition but also as a tribute to the bravery of the Croatian people, particularly during a significant moment in Croatia’s history.

The Sinjska Alka was first held in 1715, in honor of the Croatian defenders who successfully fought off an Ottoman invasion in the town of Sinj. The town, outnumbered and outgunned, managed to hold off an Ottoman siege, which was seen as nothing short of a miracle. This tournament was created to celebrate this victory and the brave men who fought for the town’s freedom. Held annually since, it is one of Croatia's longest-running traditions and is recognized as a symbol of national pride and heritage.

So what is the Sinjska Alka exactly? and how does it work?

The Alka is held every first Sunday of August, during the town’s Alka Days festivities, which last for several days. The tournament itself is a highly competitive event where knights, known as Alkari, ride on horseback at full gallop and aim a lance at a small metal ring, or Alka, suspended in the air. Points are awarded based on where the lance hits the Alka, with the center, or Srida, being the highest score. It is not only a test of skill and precision but also a reflection of the riders' dedication to preserving this centuries-old tradition. It’s also considered a high honor to participate in the tournament.

The Sinjska Alka holds deep symbolic meaning for the people of Sinj and Croatia as a whole. It represents the town’s resilience and the enduring spirit of its people. The tournament also symbolizes Croatia’s struggle for independence and sovereignty, with the Ottoman siege of Sinj being seen as a critical point in the defense of the region. Each rider represents not just skill in horsemanship but also a connection to a long line of ancestors who defended their homeland with bravery and determination.

In 2010, UNESCO recognized the Sinjska Alka as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, underslining its importance not just for Croatia but for the world. The event has been carefully preserved and passed down through generations, with strict rules regarding who can participate. Only men born in the Sinj region are eligible to become *alkari*, ensuring that the local tradition is kept alive. The tournament's preservation is crucial in maintaining the cultural identity of Sinj and its people, as it continues to unite generations through a shared sense of history.

 This one was a new one for me, I was thrilled to come across it during my late night google deep dives, I think I’m better for it. The Sinjska Alka should not be viewed solely as a competitive sporting event or knight and horse show; it is a celebration of history, culture, and community the ultimate trifecta. The balance of cultural heritage and sport make it a win-win, but ultimately its the people that make it come to life, those who participate and those fortunate enough to see it first hand. This one has made my list and sounds super cool to see in person, I look forward to it one day.

And that’s it for the Super Slatko Report.