Thursday 26 May sees the opening day of competitions in the 73rd edition of the Piazza di Siena showjumping and equestrian event in the Villa Borghese park in Rome. Famous names from the world of showjumping will be competing in the Nations Cup when teams from at least 12 countries, including the United States, Great Britain, Belgium, France, Germany and Holland, will be taking part.

The competitions close on Sunday 29 May with the thrilling Carosello dei Carabinieri, when tens of Carabinieri horsemen in traditional costumes and plumed hats, and with lances at the ready, thunder around the arena in continuously-changing formation to finish with a final charge. For those who are unable to go to the Piazza di Siena, the Italian state television channel RAI 3 is offering a summary of the day's events at 18.10 every day from 26-29 May.

For programme information and tickets see www.piazzadisiena.com