The Historical Carnival of Ivrea

The General on his horse are looking at the burning Scarlo, a large pole covered by heather and juniper in Ivrea, pop. 30.000. During the days of the Carnival, Ivrea becomes crammed with tourists coming to witness the event which finds its roots at the end of the XII Century, when the people led an insurrection against the local tyrant, Count Ranieri of Biandrate, who was exercising the 'jus primae noctis' rule (having the first night) on the local young brides. The battle to overthrow him is represented with a 3-day-fight between factions in which more then 400 tonnes of oranges are thrown. During the celebrations, food stalls, bands playing music, and parades are also present, giving it a typical Medieval atmosphere. .

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Copyright: Alex Masi
Image Size: 3072x2048 / 5.8MB; Ivrea Italy Carnival orange battle costume traditional Italian piedmont celebration event festival Alex Masi festivity
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The General on his horse are looking at the burning Scarlo, a large pole covered by heather and juniper in Ivrea, pop. 30.000. During the days of the Carnival, Ivrea becomes crammed with tourists coming to witness the event which finds its roots at the end of the XII Century, when the people led an insurrection against the local tyrant, Count Ranieri of Biandrate, who was exercising the 'jus primae noctis' rule (having the first night) on the local young brides. The battle to overthrow him is represented with a 3-day-fight between factions in which more then 400 tonnes of oranges are thrown. During the celebrations, food stalls, bands playing music, and parades are also present, giving it a typical Medieval atmosphere. .