A Medieval stage animated by hundreds of participants, historical parades and processions, dances, costume parties and dancing evenings, entertainment and games for children.
The Historical Carnival of Verrès is one of the most evocative events in the Aosta Valley, which every year recalls an episode that really happened in 1450, when the Countess Caterina di Challant, accompanied by the consort Pierre d’Introd, took to the streets among the people and danced with the young people of the village, winning the hearts of her subjects with a gesture of openness and democracy
The Carnival celebrates the memory of Caterina di Challant, the first countess regent of the valley, who inherited the title from her father and had to defend it against the claims of her cousins.
His gesture of dancing in the square with the people, on May 31, 1450, was greeted with enthusiasm and the famous cry “Vive Introd et Madame de Challant” still echoes today during the event
It typically takes place for four days between the end of February and the beginning of March and includes:
Official presentation of Caterina and Pierre d’Introd: in Piazza Émile Chanoux, with the reading of the Proclamation, Caterina’s dance with the people and a historical parade with over 250 costumed figures, accompanied by a torchlight procession and live music.
Historical parades and processions: the procession passes through the streets of the village, involving medieval, folkloristic and masked groups, allegorical floats and musical bands. There is also the throwing of sweets and mimosas from Caterina’s float.
Veglionissimi and dances at the Verrès Castle: the dancing evenings and costumed parties are held in the suggestive rooms of the castle, with live music and DJ sets until late at night.
Medieval entertainment and games: during the day, the town comes alive with musicians, dancers, flag-wavers, birds of prey and medieval games, offering entertainment for all ages.
Events for children: the afternoon at the castle is dedicated to the little ones, with entertainment and medieval-themed workshops.
Historical dinners and awards: medieval dinners in the castle, awards for the most beautiful masks and theatrical performances complete the program
The events take place between the historic center of Verrès and the Castle.
A free shuttle service is available from Piazza Europa to the castle square, followed by a short walk of about 10 minutes.
Access to the town for the parades and entertainment is free;
for the dancing evenings at the castle there is an entrance fee
This event takes place every year between the end of February and the beginning of March
Free Event (Excluding the Castle)
For information, dates and the progress of the Event visit the site indicated at the end of the article
The events reported may be subject to changes or cancellations.
It is always advisable to inquire in advance to confirm the event and dates
Historical Carnival
Verrès
Aosta Valley – Italy
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