In Nocera Inferiore (Salerno), during the historic Cavalcade of the Three Kings, a horse used in the procession suddenly collapsed on the asphalt, losing its life before the eyes of those present. An episode that marked the eighteenth edition of the event and which left an entire community dismayed.
The drama took place in via Atzori, a short distance from the cathedral of San Prisco al Vescovado, the final destination of the parade. According to initial reconstructions, the animal was pulling a carriage when it lost its balance, ending up disastrously on the ground. Initially we thought it was a slip on the asphalt wet from the rain that had fallen in the previous hours, but within a short time the most painful confirmation arrived: the horse had not made it.
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What deeply affected public opinion was the image of the animal’s body on the asphalt, covered by a blue tarpaulin in front of the carriage it was pulling. Shocking photos and videos began to rapidly circulate on social networks, turning the episode into a viral case and fueling indignation and sadness far beyond local borders.
The procession continues, controversies break out
Despite what happened, the demonstration continued, a choice that contributed to further igniting the controversy. Many citizens and online users expressed shock and anger, wondering whether it was appropriate to continue the event after such a serious episode. The debate quickly moved to the broader issue of the use of animals in public events.
Among the harshest interventions, that of Annalisa Carleo, former Guarantor for the protection of animals of the Municipality of Nocera Superiore, stands out, who spoke of insensitivity and carelessness towards the life of sentient beings. Enpa Salerno also wonders how it is possible to continue to defend events that involve the use of animals as stage instruments. Horses, oxen and other sentient beings are subjected to stress, noise, crowds and dangerous surfaces, often incompatible with their nature. Defining all this as “tradition” risks becoming an alibi for ignoring suffering.
In 2026 certain practices appear increasingly anachronistic. Traditions are not immutable: they can and must evolve, finding alternative forms that respect history without putting innocent lives at risk. Celebrations can be carried out by human beings, without involving those who have no choice.
The death of the horse in Nocera Inferiore cannot be dismissed as a tragic fatality. It is an episode that requires deep reflection on what we are willing to accept in the name of entertainment. Continuing like this means taking responsibility for other possible suffering. Changing, however, is an act of civility and respect.
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