The Battle of the Oranges is the most spectacular event of the Historic Ivrea Carnival, a cultural heritage tradition that ranks the celebration among the most significant Carnival events on the international stage.
On the afternoons of Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, nine teams of Aranceri on foot, wearing no protective gear other than the colours of their team, challenge the Carri da Getto. Drawn by horses adorned with finely crafted harnesses, the carts carry Aranceri protected by leather masks and bear names inspired by the region’s medieval tradition. The Battle commemorates the popular uprising in which the people of Ivrea rose up against the tyrant and his soldiers. Combining passion with fair play, thousands of participants bring this extraordinary moment of collective celebration to life, a festival in which anyone can take part by joining either the foot Aranceri or the Carri da Getto.
Contrary to what many might think, the tradition of throwing oranges has ancient origins. During the nineteenth century, in Ivrea as well as in many other European cities, oranges were thrown playfully, usually from balconies, as part of the Carnival festivities. From the mid-twentieth century onwards, however, and especially following the end of the Second World War, this tradition evolved in Ivrea into the unique form we know today. Teams of Aranceri on foot were established and the first Carri da Getto were introduced, transforming playful mockery into a genuine—albeit carefully regulated—ritual contest.
Today, the Battle of the Oranges is an expression of civic pride, bringing people peacefully into the streets to celebrate a festival whose central value is Freedom. Although fiercely competitive, the Battle is governed by unwritten rules deeply embedded in the city’s collective memory. Victory is determined not only by the skill and intensity of the throws, but also by respect for one’s opponents, adherence to Carnival traditions, and each team’s contribution to the beauty and festive atmosphere of the city. Only by embodying these values can both the Aranceri on foot and the Carri da Getto compete for the awards announced on Tuesday evening at the conclusion of the final day of the Battle.
