Roam on a donkey

Travellers visiting Rome this year should get their travel insurance sorted out and then climb aboard a donkey for the t

Travel Insurance News - 03/08/2005

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Travellers visiting Rome this year should get their travel insurance sorted out and then climb aboard a donkey for the thrill of their lives!

On the third Sunday in August, Rome holds a yearly donkey race that offers travellers a unique experience from the traditional tourist routes, and is a bit more action packed than browsing around the Colloseum!

The small town of Allumiere plays host to an age-old donkey race that sees the six districts of town compete in the town's central square.

Not particularly renown for their speed, 24 locals urge their donkeys on as they vie with fellow residents to take the donkey speed crown and things can get quite hectic, so it's best to ensure you have adequate travel cover to cover the cost of any injuries.

The tradition stems from the 12th century, when it was introduced by the banker Agostino Chigi, and the Romans honour the tradition before the race with a vibrant parade, known as the Sbandieratori. Travel insurance will also cover visitors for any belongings they may lose in the bustle of the parade.

Rome itself was reputedly founded in 753 BC by the twin sons of Mars, Romulus and Remus and the city has a rich, ancient heritage that any visitor to the city must try and experience.

To watch the modern perpetuation of Rome's heritage, this years' race is held on August 21st and starts around 17:00 BST.

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