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When in the 1800s the Napoleonic troops crossed the Aosta Valley to descend into the plains, they created a historical memory that the population of the Gran San Bernardo Valley turned into tradition. Colorful and precious costumes have become attire to be preserved and passed down from generation to generation. The Coumba Frèida carnival is one of the most heartfelt carnivals in Aosta Valley.
The event, which takes place on Mardi Gras, the last day of carnival, is an allegorical transposition of Napoleon Bonaparte’s crossing of the Alps in May 1800.
The uniforms of the Landzette (representing the soldiers) are red, a color symbolizing strength and vigor, and are entirely handmade. Beads, sequins, and small mirrors are applied to the uniforms, reflecting light to ward off evil spirits. The Landzette parade with their faces covered and a horse’s tail hair in their hand, while around their waist they have a belt with a bell that rings with every movement.
On the day of the event, mask parades are planned in the streets of various towns in the Gran San Bernardo Valley, and the procession consists of the “guide” who waves a flag and calls the other characters with a horn. Among the main characters, there is the “bear”, a symbol of fertility and the approaching spring with its emergence from hibernation, and the “Toc” and “Tocca”, a couple of elderly people dressed in torn clothes who annoy each other. In addition to parading in streets and squares, the characters, accompanied by musical groups, pay visit to the inhabitants, eating what is offered to them.
Days
10 February 24
13 February 24
From
Information/To know
Suitable for Everybody
Wheelchair accessible
Location/The place
Address
Valle del Gran San Bernardo, Gignod, AO, Italia
How to get there
By car: once you exit at the Aosta East freeway exit, proceed following the signs for the Great St. Bernard Tunnel, about 25 km in 36 minutes to get to Saint Rhemy the most distant municipality.
