While the Prancing Horse emblem transcends the automotive industry as one of the most recognisable icons in the world, Ferrari’s unmistakable logo has a rich and complex history, carrying with it the story of a fighter pilot from Lugo, the early days of international motor racing, and turbulent Italian politics.

Before it was a racing symbol, the Cavallino Rampante (Prancing Horse) was steeped in military history. The 2^nd "Piemonte Cavalleria" cavalry regiment of the Italian army, founded in the 17^th century, boasts a silver prancing horse on a red background as part of its coat of arms. It was here that keen equestrian Francesco Baracca, born to a wealthy family in Lugo, Emilia-Romagna, joined in 1910, having passed through the Military Academy of Modena.