Battaglia delle Chiuse Historical Re-enactment

A night in the Middle Ages at the foot of the Sacra di San Michele

The Battaglia delle Chiuse Historical Re-enactment is one of the most anticipated summer events in the Susa Valley. Each year, the Municipality of Sant'Ambrogio di Torino, located in the province of Turin in the heart of Piedmont, dresses up to commemorate one of the most significant episodes in early medieval Italian history. For one evening, the entire village, dominated by the imposing Sacra di San Michele, becomes an authentic medieval settlement where visitors can relive the atmosphere, crafts, and flavors of over a millennium ago.

The Battle of 773: Charlemagne vs. King Desiderius

The event celebrates the historic clash that took place in 773 AD between the Frankish army led by Charlemagne and the Lombard troops of King Desiderius, who were entrenched behind the Chiuse fortifications that blocked access to the Po Valley. The Frankish victory effectively marked the end of the Lombard kingdom in Italy: a crucial turning point in European history that found its epilogue right here, at the gateway to the Susa Valley. The re-enactment meticulously recreates the climate of those days, featuring camps, costumes, and reconstructed weaponry.

The medieval village and its attractions

From late afternoon, the streets and squares of the historic center fill with costumed re-enactors. Visitors can stroll through:

• Taverns serving roasted meats, cured meats, cheeses, and desserts inspired by medieval recipes;
• Artisan workshops demonstrating live woodcarving, pottery, weaving, and metalwork;
• Musicians, minstrels, and jesters bringing the village corners to life with ancient music and juggling;
• Scenes of daily Lombard life, workshops, and medieval games for all ages;
• Fire shows and dances that accompany the evening.

A popular detail for visitors is the special currency minted for the occasion, used to purchase food and drinks within the village in true medieval style.

The grand finale: the battle re-enactment

The heart of the event is the re-enactment of the battle, preceded by a costumed procession through the village. Against the scenic backdrop of the Church Square, dozens of performers bring the clash between the Franks and the Lombards to life, complete with special effects, fire, and field charges that transport the audience back to the year 773.

A community event

The event is promoted by the Municipality of Sant'Ambrogio di Torino in collaboration with the Pro Loco, thanks to the work of hundreds of volunteers who make this extraordinary event possible every year. It is an appointment that combines historical education, popular tradition, and the identity of the Susa Valley, perfect for families, medieval history enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike.