On Saturday, June 27, the village of Sant'Ambrogio di Torino will once again transform into a vast open-air stage for the Historical Reenactment of the Battle of the Chiuse. From 6:00 PM until late evening, the town's streets will welcome visitors, families, and history buffs on an immersive journey through Lombards, Franks, merchants, musicians, falconers, and warriors.
The event, organized by the Municipality of Sant'Ambrogio di Torino together with the Pro Loco Sant'Ambrogio e Sacra San Michele, commemorates one of the most significant episodes in the history of the Susa Valley: the Battle of the Chiuse, fought in 773 AD, when Charlemagne's army overcame the Lombard defenses, paving the way for the conquest of the Lombard Kingdom. This page of history lives on in the memory of the area and is told through performances, historical reenactments, and audience participation.
Throughout the evening, the historic center will be animated by scenes of medieval life, encampments, games, traveling musicians, and performances. The churchyard will feature a concert by the Philharmonic, performances by Les Troubadours des Châteaux, a falconry display, the evocative Cosmo Show di Fuoco, and performances by the Trybellissime, creating a unique atmosphere that will captivate both adults and children.
The streets of the village will feature Lombard scenes by the Cannetum, while the Diventocanto choir will perform two concerts at the Church of San Rocco. Throughout the event, it will also be possible to visit the Giansone Museum, which will be open in the afternoon for the occasion.
The heart of the evening will be the four taverns set up by the town's historic villages: Taverna delle Masche, Taverna delle Brayde, Taverna del Sole, and Taverna del Falconero, each serving its own menu inspired by medieval tradition and accompanied by wine, beer, and specialties prepared by volunteers. A gastronomic journey that will allow visitors to discover the flavors, recipes, and atmospheres of the past.
A distinctive feature of the event will once again be the Balengu, the historical currency used during the event to purchase food and drinks at the taverns. Visitors will be able to exchange their money at the designated customs offices and enjoy an even more authentic experience, fully immersing themselves in the spirit of the reenactment.
The most anticipated moment will arrive at 10:45 pm, when participants and reenactors will bring to life the Battle of the Locks, a spectacular historical reenactment that represents the culmination of the event. After the battle, the celebrations will continue with medieval dances and moments of conviviality in the town squares.
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