Historical Tournament of the Susa Districts

The Historical Tournament of the Susa Districts

In the heart of the Susa Valley, just a stone's throw from the Alps and the great mountain passes that have always linked Piedmont to France, the city of Susa (Metropolitan City of Turin) relives its medieval past every summer with the Historical Tournament of the Districts. It is one of the most cherished historical re-enactments in the region, organized by the Pro Susa Association, which has been preserving and promoting local traditions for over fifty years.

Countess Adelaide, the soul of the festival

At the center of it all is Adelaide of Susa (1020-1091), daughter of Olderico Manfredi and wife of Oddone of Savoy. Upon her husband's death, she ruled alone over a vast domain stretching from the Alpine passes to Liguria, becoming one of the most powerful female figures of the European Middle Ages. The tournament celebrates her memory: every year, a new Countess and her consort, chosen from the residents of the districts, lead the historical procession through the city streets. For the 2026 edition, the role is entrusted to Veronica Carbone and Simone Girodo, representing the Borgo Nuovo, with a new Palio dedicated to the "power of Adelaide".

Six districts competing for the Palio

The city of Susa is ideally divided into six historic districts that challenge each other to win the Palio:

• Borgo dei Cappuccini
• Borgo dei Franchi
• Borgo dei Nobili
• Borgo Nuovo
• Borgo Storico
• Borgo di Traduerivi

The competition consists of three events: two individual—archery and the Saracen joust—and one team event, the traditional tug-of-war. The competitions take place in the evocative setting of the Roman Arena, one of the city's most precious ancient landmarks.

Three days of the Middle Ages

The event comes to life among the squares and monuments of the historic center: the performance of the drummers in Piazza San Giusto, the grand costumed procession toward the Roman Arena, the oath of the District Leaders, and the medieval show in honor of the Countess. Sunday opens with the parade and the blessing of the Palio in the Cathedral, before the epilogue with the traditional competitions. An opportunity to discover Susa, the ancient "gateway to Italy" on the Via Francigena, and its extraordinary historical heritage among Roman ruins, walls, and medieval architecture.