Carnival in Upper Piedmont is a journey through history, folklore and authentic flavours. From iconic masks to traditional sweets, passing through spectacular celebrations such as those in Borgosesia and Varallo, this celebration encapsulates the most lively and authentic essence of the territory.
SYMBOLIC CARNIVALS: BORGOSESIA, VARALLO AND SANTHIÀ
The undisputed stars of Carnival in Upper Piedmont, Borgosesia, Varallo and Santhià offer immersive experiences that reveal the soul of this land.
In Borgosesia, the famous Mercu Scurot is the highlight of the festival: literally “Ash Wednesday” because it takes place on the first day of Lent, it is an event rooted in local history that combines folklore, music and entertainment, with a long procession representing a sort of funeral for Carnival. Over the years, the Borgosesia Carnival has been enriched with parades of allegorical floats, characteristic masks and dance evenings involving the whole community. Among the most representative figures are Peru Magunella and his companion Gin Fiammà, symbols of the playful irony that has always characterised this celebration.
Varallo, on the other hand, with its historic Carnival, combines the cultural richness of Valsesia with a festive and engaging atmosphere. The symbolic masks, Marcantonio Carlavèe and his wife Cecca, express all the liveliness of this festival. Colourful parades, dances and historical re-enactments transform the streets of Varallo into an , where every moment is a tribute to the deep roots of the territory.
Finally, the Carnival of Santhià is the oldest in Piedmont, dating back to 1338. Among the most characteristic moments are the presentation of the masks, the handing over of the keys — an opportunity to poke fun at local events and personalities — and the famous fagiolata, the largest bean feast in Italy, with around 20,000 portions distributed. The celebrations also include the Pule, a sort of alms collection, and the Congreghe, where the proceeds are auctioned off, along with balls and popular games. It all culminates with the symbolic burning of the Babaciu, the king of Carnival, which brings the craziest time of the year to a spectacular close.
FROM VERCELLI TO BIELLA, THE OTHER EMBLEMATIC MASKS OF THE REGION
Continuing our journey to discover Carnival in Upper Piedmont, we encounter other masks that reveal precious fragments of local culture and identity.
In Vercelli, the Bicciolano and his companion Bela Majin stand out as symbols of the city, dating back to the late 18th century, when Carlin Belletti, known as the Bicciolano, raised a cry of freedom in defence of the people oppressed by taxes. In Novara, we find Re Biscottino, a figure inspired by the local confectionery tradition and the famous Biscotto di Novara, accompanied by his beloved consort Regina Cüneta, whose name derives from the canal built by the Savoy family around the Baluardi, one of the most important works for the city. The 19th-century masks of the Domodossola Carnival, Togn and Cia, are also fascinating, enriching the atmosphere with performances and moments of pure joy. In Biella, on the other hand, the “old man” Gipin, with his “big shoes and sharp mind”, brings a smile to the streets of the city, together with his inseparable companion Catlin-a, who, curious, gossipy and cunning, has learned about the world through the small-town gossip of her village. Each mask is a window into the history of the communities of Upper Piedmont, capable of combining culture and entertainment in a celebration that wins people over year after year.
CARNIVAL SWEETS: A FESTIVAL OF FLAVOURS
Carnival in Upper Piedmont is a celebration of authentic flavours that reflect the culture of the area: a real feast for the taste buds. Let’s start with the inevitable bugie – the name given in Biella to the typical carnival sweets, known as chiacchiere in Verbano Cusio Ossola and gale in Vercelli – and continue with the bignole novaresi, small and irresistible sweets filled with delicious creams, similar to fried tortelli. In Vercelli, an authentic taste of this land is also offered by the famous Bicciolano, a spiced biscuit that takes its name from the city’s symbolic mask. In the Biella area, the Bale d’Ors, honey and chocolate pralines inspired by the city’s coat of arms, and the fragrant Mantovane di Cossato also stand out. In Val Formazza, Krussli delight with their crunchy texture and intense flavour. Finally, in Oleggio, Tapit, simple and genuine biscuits whose recipe has been handed down from generation to generation, take their name from their shape, which resembles caps or buttons.
SIP OF TRADITION: LOCAL WINES
No Carnival is complete without a good glass of wine, especially sweet wine, to accompany the flavours of the region, for a celebration that involves all the senses. Among the reds, Ghemme and Gattinara stand out, two DOCG wines that best express the nobility of Nebbiolo. For white wine lovers, Erbaluce di Caluso DOCG, produced in the hills of Biella and Vercelli, is an absolute must: in still, sparkling or passito versions, this elegant wine is perfect both as an aperitif and as an accompaniment to desserts.
DISCOVERING CARNIVAL IN UPPER PIEDMONT
Carnival in Upper Piedmont is a celebration of the culture, flavours and traditions that make this area so special. With fascinating masks, irresistible desserts and excellent wines, every moment becomes an opportunity to experience a land rich in history and personality.
For more information on the “Vivi Alto Piemonte – Un Mosaico di Meraviglie” (Experience Upper Piedmont – A Mosaic of Wonders) project and future initiatives, visit www.vivialtopiemonte.it
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