Carnival of Ivrea, Italy
The historical Carnival of Ivrea is Italy’s oldest authorized festival and is famously known for the Battle of the Oranges, a massive organized food fight. The battle reenacts a medieval rebellion of the citizens against a tyrannical lord who attempted to claim jus primea nocitis (the right to the bride) from a local miller’s daughter Violetta. This revolt is commemorated by thousands of participants in nine teams, representing the commoners who throw oranges at horse-drawn carriages symbolizing the tyrant’s guards. Beyond the citrus chaos, this event is a civic ritual steeped in Napoleonic-era pageantry featuring a grand parage, historical costumes and the symbolic burning of Scarli (large poles) to celebrate the triumph of liberty over oppression.
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Cicchette — Polpette; Ricotta, Walnuts, and Honey; Fried Artichoke
Polenta e Merluzzo — Polenta and Cod Fish
Torta 900 — Ivrea Carnival Cake