The history we study teaches winners and losers, but it would be very interesting to also know about the symbolism behind the battles. Just as there are unusual characters who have influenced the history of evolution, there are equally curious objects such as a wooden bucket which represent important meanings for local history.
The Bucket Waralso known as the Battle of Zappolino of 1325, reveals how a simple wooden bucket can become the symbol of a historic victory. This story, which unfolds within the ancient walls of Bologna e Modenaoffers an insight into the political and territorial tensions of the time, showing how everyday objects can acquire an unexpected value.
In a period characterized by deep divisions between Guelfi e Ghibellines, Bologna and Modena found themselves at the center of a dispute that could be mistaken for the plot of a comedy. The dispute, which arose from territorial, economic and pure civic pride issues, resulted in a battle that saw opposing the pride guelfo of Bologna and the determination Ghibelline of Modena.
The culmination of this rivalry was reached near the Panaro torrent, where, despite the clear numerical inferiority, the Modenese led by Passerino Bonacolsi they managed to defeat the Bolognese forces. The bucket enters the scene as a war trophy after the victory of the latter: they entered the city of Bologna and they took a wooden bucket from the city’s main well.
This act had a profound meaning symbolic: it represented a disgrace for the vanquished and a trophy of victory for the victors. Although it may seem strange that a simple wooden bucket can take on such a meaning, this reflects the customs of the time, where symbols and gestures had a strong impact on perceptions of honor and shame of the communities.