Centenary of the Val della Torre Alpini Group (1926-2026)

A century of 'black feathers' in Val della Torre

The Centenary of the Val della Torre Alpini Group celebrates one hundred years of history, from 1926 to 2026, of one of the most deeply rooted associations in the municipality of Val della Torre, in the Province of Turin and the heart of Piedmont. For three days, from Friday, June 12th to Sunday, June 14th, 2026, the town pays tribute to its 'penne nere' with a programme of ceremonies, moments of remembrance, and festive occasions open to the entire community.

The Group's History

Founded in the 1920s, the Val della Torre Alpini Group is part of the 5th Zone of the Turin Section of the National Alpine Association (ANA), alongside the groups of Alpignano, Caselette, Collegno, Druento, Givoletto, Grugliasco, La Cassa, Pianezza, Rivoli, Rosta, San Gillio, and Villarbasse. Over the decades, the Group has distinguished itself through its commitment to preserving historical memory: maintaining war memorials, organising documentary exhibitions on members' experiences, and carrying out volunteer work for the local area. On the occasion of its 85th anniversary in 2012, the Monumento alle penne mozze (Monument to the Fallen Alpini) was inaugurated at the Padre Pellegrino Cultural Centre, which is now the focal point for the town's Alpine celebrations.

Three days of celebrations

As is tradition for Alpine gatherings, the centenary days alternate between solemn moments and convivial ones. Friday evening opens the celebrations with a cultural and musical event; Saturday is dedicated to remembrance, with the laying of flowers and wreaths at commemorative markers and war memorials, followed by an evening of camaraderie. Sunday represents the climax of the festival, with the assembly of the Alpine Groups, the parade through the town streets accompanied by a marching band, the field Mass, and the traditional rancio alpino.

• Friday, June 12th: Opening of the celebrations with an evening cultural and musical event
• Saturday, June 13th: Honours to the fallen with wreath-laying at monuments and an Alpine evening
• Sunday, June 14th: Assembly, parade with banners, field Mass, and Alpine meal

The Alpine spirit

This gathering is much more than a simple anniversary: it is the living story of a deep bond between the Alpini and their valley, built on solidarity, attachment to traditions, and a love for the mountains. For one weekend, Val della Torre welcomes 'penne nere' from across the entire Turin Section and beyond, in a spirit of brotherhood that has characterised the Group for a century. The event is free to attend and is organised by the Val della Torre Alpini Group with the patronage of the Municipality.