In the span between an evening meal and a lively parade, Canelli revels in its Palio celebration.
In the heart of Italy's Piedmont region, the charming town of Canelli recently hosted a spectacular event that paid homage to its rich history. On a Saturday evening, over 170 locals and visitors gathered in Piazza San Lorenzo, the old town of Sternia, for the "Procession Dinner. Waiting for the Palio."
The event, organised by the Pro Loco di Cassinasco and held in celebration of the 750th anniversary of the Palio di Canelli, aimed to re-enact the procession of delivering gifts to the Confraternity of the Holy Spirit as a symbolic gesture of sharing and belonging.
The procession was led by the drums of Canelli, played by Dino Zanatta, as the participants marched in costumes from Atelier Principessa Valentina, adding an authentic touch to the medieval atmosphere.
A highlight of the evening was the participation of the Asti Buhurt Club, who staged thrilling duels using swords and medieval armor, reminiscent of the knights of old. The float, represented by jockey Massimo Columbu, carried the theme of "Banquets and Bacchanals in Church: The Medieval Confraternity of the Holy Spirit in Canelli."
The event was a great success, with many local political figures in attendance, including Mayor Roberta Giovine, Deputy Mayor Mauro Stroppiana, Culture Assessor Tosti, Provincial Councilor Alessandro Negro, and the city's event assessor Riccardo Origlia.
Ester Colleoni and Maria Sole Giovane provided a musical moment during the event, while Aldo Delaude and Rosangela Pescarmona shared insights into the history of the Palio and this year's theme.
The dinner was curated by the Ca' de Lion winery, offering a taste of the region's finest wines. The Confraternity's feast, which dates back to the Middle Ages when they collected food for collective feasts during Pentecost and other periods of the year, was also celebrated in the church of San Tommaso.
Despite its abolition during the Counter-Reformation for being considered blasphemous, the spirit of solidarity and community that the Confraternity represented remains a significant part of Canelli's culture. This year's procession is a testament to the town's enduring tradition and its commitment to preserving its rich history.
In the midst of excitement, Ester Colleoni and Maria Sole Giovane added melodic tones to the event, performing a captivating musical moment. Aldo Delaude and Rosangela Pescarmona accompanied the enchanting evening with insightful discussions about the history of the Palio and its theme. The dinner, meticulously curated by Ca' de Lion winery, showcased Piedmont's exceptional food-and-drink offerings, making it a magical culinary experience. The event organizer, Pro Loco di Cassinasco, incorporated aspects from fashion-and-beauty and lifestyle sectors, as participants donned costumes created by Atelier Principessa Valentina, enhancing the medieval ambiance. Canelli's travel itineraries expanded to include cultural-travel experiences, as the town's home-and-garden settings provided a scenic backdrop for the evening's events, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the region's rich history.
