The Four Moors: history and legend of the Sardinian symbol
If you have ever seen the Sardinian flagyou must have wondered what those four moors with a bandage on his forehead. Well, I am not just a symbol identity, but they conceal centuries of history, legends and curiosities. This article will tell you everything: from origins controversial to the link with Livornothrough the monument of the four moors and the role in culture Sardinian. If you want to find out why this banner is so important, read on!
1. What is the origin of the four Moors?
L'source of four moors is debated between historians. Some link it to the battle of Alcoraz (1096), where King Peter I of Aragon defeated the Muslims with the help of St George. According to the traditionfour severed heads of Moorish rulers were placed on the banner Aragonese.
Other scholars believe that the symbol was born in 14th centurywhen Sardinia was under Aragonese rule. I four moors could represent the four judged conquered Sardinians. La historical reality mixes with the legendmaking the icon even more fascinating.
2. Why does the Sardinian flag have the 4 Moors?
La Sardinian flagofficially adopted in 15th century, derives from the banner of the Kingdom of Aragon. I four moors symbolise the victories achieved against Muslim invaders. Over time, it became the emblem autonomous of theislandrepresenting pride Sardinian.
Curiously, the current version has bandages on the forehead, whereas in the past they covered the eyes. This change, which took place in 18th centurycould symbolise liberation from oppression. Today, the flag of the four moors waves everywhere in Sardinia, from institutions to popular celebrations.
3. What does Livorno have to do with the four Moors?
A Livorno the famous monument of the four moorssculpted by Pietro Tacca at 1626. It depicts Ferdinand I de' Medici with four prisoners at their feet in bronzelinked to the victory of the Knights of St Stephen on Barbary corsairs.
The link with Sardinia? The grand duke Tuscan used the symbol of the Moors as a tribute to military exploits in the Mediterranean. Today, the statue is an attraction of Micheli Square, near the Dockyard and the Old Fortress.
4. Are the four Moors related to St. George?
According to a legend, St George appeared during the Battle of Alcoraz, helping the Aragonese to victory. Le four heads the Moors would thus become a ornament of banner.
However, the cult of St George was also widespread among the Knights of St Stephena Tuscan military order. This interweaving of the sacred and military made the four moors a symbol of Sardinia and beyond.
5. How are Moors represented in art?
I four moors appear in several works: from the statue of Ferdinand in Livorno to the paintings of Louvre Museum. Lo sculptor Giovanni Bandini realised the templates at Carrara marblethen cast in bronze.
Also the red cross in the background, typical of Sardinian pennantrecurs in many performances. During the World War IIthe monument Livorno was dismantled to protect it, proving its value historian.
6. Why do Moors wear blindfolds?
Initially, Moors wore blindfolds, perhaps indicating submission. From 1700the bandage was moved to the forehead, becoming a sign of redemption.
Some believe that the change took place under the Savoyto give a more proud image Sardinian. Today, the Sardinian flag with bandages raised is an icon of identity and resistance.
7. What other legends surround the Four Moors?
A tradition popular narrative that the Moors represent four princes defeated by Peter I of Aragon. Another links them to victories in the Murcia and the Balearic Islands.
There are also those who see in the four moors a reminder of the four judged Sardinians (13th century), unified under the crown Aragonese. In short, each version adds mystery to the symbol.
8. Where are the four Moors beyond Sardinia?
In addition to Livornothe banner appears in Spain, especially in Aragon. Also in Parisin the Louvre Museumthere are works related to the Moors.
In Sardinia, the symbol is everywhere: public buildings, car number plates and even tourist gadgets. It is an icon that unites history and modernity.
9. How has the perception of the Four Moors changed?
Over time, the four moors went from emblem of Aragonese domination to symbol of Sardinia autonomous. Today they represent the pride Sardinianso much so that they are used in events and victory celebrations.
Even on Wikipedia the entry on the Moors is among the most consulted, a sign of growing interest.
10. What historical sources mention the Four Moors?
La bibliography includes medieval texts, Aragonese documents and modern studies. Works such as those by Pietro Tacca or archives medicei provide valuable details.
To learn more, visit the Bath of the Forced in Livorno or consult findings from the 15th century. The history of the Moors is still being researched today.
In summary: what to remember about the Four Moors?
They represent Aragonese victories and Sardinian identity.
The Sardinian flag has undergone changes (blindfold → forehead).
The Four Moors monument in Livorno celebrates military feats.
Legends include St George and the Battle of Alcoraz.
They are a symbol of pride, also present in Spain and art.
10 Surprising (and Little Known) Anecdotes about the Four Moors
1. The Sardinian Flag Could Have Had a Boar
Before the 4 Moors, some Sardinian medieval banners depicted a wild boar (symbol of strength). Had that tradition won out, Sardinia would have a totally different symbol today!
2. The Original Moors Had an Eye Patch... and a Smile
In early versions (14th century), the Moors were not as proud and serious as they are today: some drawings show them smiling, with a blindfold over their eyes. A much less threatening look!
3. Napoleon and the Missing Flag
During the French occupation (1800), Napoleon attempted to abolish the Sardinian flag, imposing revolutionary symbols. The Sardinians restored it as soon as possible, as an act of resistance.
4. The Pirate Flag of the Sardinians
In the 17th century, some Sardinian ships used a 'pirate' version of the 4 Moors: black on a red background, similar to the Jolly Roger. Perhaps to scare off enemies?
5. A 'Female' Moor Hidden in History
In a rare Aragonese manuscript, one of the 4 Moors has female features. Some historians speculate that it represents a Berber queen defeated in battle.
6. The Sardinian Flag in Space
In 2019, astronaut Luca Parmitano is said to have brought a 4 mori flag to the International Space Station, making it (perhaps) the first Italian regional flag in space!
7. Mussolini's 'Wrong' Moor
During fascism, propaganda showed the Moors with the blindfold on the right (instead of the left). Historical mistake! The Sardinians realised this and protested.
8. The Curse of the 4 Moors
A popular legend says that whoever damages the flag will have four years of bad luck. In 1980, a vandal who burnt a flag in Cagliari ended up in court... and lost his job shortly afterwards.
9. The Phantom Flag of the 18th century
In 1794, an anti-feudal revolt used a flag with 4 Moors without blindfolds (symbol of rebellion). It was immediately banned, and only two original examples exist today.
10. The 'Fifth Moor' Mystery
In Sassari, a 16th century fresco shows five Moriscope heads instead of four. Perhaps an artist's error... or a lost symbol? Nobody knows!
Bonus Curiosities
The red cross on the flag is not that of St George (contrary to popular belief), but an Aragonese symbol of military victory.
In the Naval Museum in Madrid there is a Sardinian flag captured in 1717, with Moors looking backwards (unique in the world!).
If you thought the 4 Moors were just a flag, now you know they hide stories from the movies! 😲 Which one surprised you the most?