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Every year, in the days leading up to Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras, the people of Ivrea dress up in medieval costumes and divide into nine different teams to participate in a lively and unique orange-throwing contest that lasts for three consecutive days.
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| The "Battle of the Oranges" festival takes place every February and is meant to reenact the uprising of the people of Ivrea who overthrew a tyrannical count. (Photo:)donnarussomorin.blogspot |
Although the festival's origins aren't entirely clear, most locals know the 19th-century story of a brutal count who attempted to abduct Violetta, the daughter of a mill owner, but was ultimately drugged and beheaded by her. Following the count's death, the people of Ivrea revolted, storming his palace. Today, the annual orange-throwing festival, known as the "Battle of the Oranges," is considered a reenactment of this rebellion.
To add authenticity to the event, a young girl will be chosen to represent Violetta, who killed the count, and the teams will be divided into royal and commoner squads. After three days of the “slaughter,” one of the commanders from each squad will end the war.
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| Dressed in medieval costumes, the people of Ivrea divide into nine different teams to participate in a lively and exciting orange-throwing contest. Photo: deeppencil |
Air
Unlike the La Tomatina tomato-throwing festival, this festival has a unique meaning. Oranges are also a tougher "bullet" than tomatoes, so when participating in this unique festival, you should prepare yourself for bruises. As injuries are frequently reported, first-aid tents are set up to ensure the safety of festival attendees.
Location
The festival takes place in Ivrea, a small and charming town nestled at the foot of the Alps, north of Turin, Italy. This town was once the capital of the ancient Roman Empire. Today, Ivrea is best known for this unique orange-throwing festival.
Accommodation
There are many hotels in Ivrea, with prices ranging around 70 euros per night. However, the orange-throwing festival is becoming increasingly popular, so visitors are encouraged to book their rooms at least four months in advance.
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| Nevertheless, the festival is often criticized for the number of injuries and the amount of discarded orange pulp scattered throughout the streets after the war. Photo: skycanner |
How to get there
The nearest airport is Turin International Airport, and from there visitors can take a train to Ivrea on the Turin – Aosta line.
What to wear
You should wear comfortable, non-dirty clothing. A red hat is also essential if you don't want to become a target for others throwing oranges at you.
Despite being an incredibly lively and unique festival, Italy's biggest food fight consumes over 200,000 kg of oranges annually. Furthermore, the orange-throwing festival has been criticized for the number of injuries and the amount of orange pulp scattered throughout the streets.
