Alagna Valsesia Alpine Guides Festival

The Alpine Guides festival at the foot of Monte Rosa

In Alagna Valsesia, located in the heart of the upper Valsesia valley in the Province of Vercelli, the Alpine Guides Festival is much more than a simple anniversary: it is the moment when the entire village gathers around those who, for generations, have accompanied mountaineers and hikers to the peaks of the Monte Rosa massif. The Alagna Guides Corps was founded in 1872 under the patronage of the CAI of Varallo, just four years after the one in Courmayeur, making it the second-oldest guides' association in Italy. Since then, the Alagna guides have become the reference point for all activities on Monte Rosa, from ski mountaineering to climbing, and from trekking to ice climbing.

A tribute to faith, memory, and the mountains

The day begins with a gathering at the Unione Alagnese, followed by a parade through the village streets accompanied by the local brass band. The most solemn moment is the High Mass in the parish church of San Giovanni Battista, celebrated in honor of the patron saint and in memory of all the guides and those who have lost their lives in the mountains, complete with a floral tribute placed on their graves. The celebration features the Die Walser Im Land Folk Group and the local choir, demonstrating how deeply rooted this festival is in the community's identity.

Alagna, a Walser village

Alagna is one of the most characteristic Walser centers in the Alps. The Walser people, of Germanic origin, arrived in Valsesia in the 13th century from the Swiss Valais, leaving an indelible mark on the village's wooden architecture, language, and rituals. The Guides Festival is also an opportunity to rediscover this ancient alpine culture, defined by respect for the mountains and a strong sense of belonging.

The heart of the festival: Piazza Grober

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to Piazza Grober, where the famous bell tower climb takes place—a demonstration of the guides' mountaineering skills—followed by the sports equipment auction. The day concludes with a convivial buffet lunch and a band concert, in an atmosphere that brings together residents, guides, and visitors. This free event is open to everyone and is perfect for those who want to experience the most authentic soul of Alagna and the Piedmont mountains.