Marchà d'Oc

The Marchà d'Oc in Salbertrand

The Marchà d'Oc is the annual June event that transforms the streets of Salbertrand into a large open-air market dedicated to Occitan traditions. Located in the Upper Susa Valley, in the province of Turin, in the heart of the alpine Piedmont, the Occitan culture remains vibrant here through the local language, trades, and the flavors of these mountains. The market takes place as part of the Saint John the Baptist Patronal Feast, representing one of its most anticipated highlights.

A market of local products and crafts

Along the village streets, about forty exhibitors offer local products, traditional crafts, and handmade items. From alpine cheeses, cured meats, honey, and preserves to woodwork, wool creations, and artisanal goods: the Marchà d'Oc is a journey through the excellence of the Occitan and Piedmontese valleys. The stalls remain open from morning until late afternoon, leaving plenty of time to stroll, sample products, and chat with the producers.

Tradition, bonfires, and the patronal feast

The Marchà d'Oc is the commercial and popular heart of the Saint John celebrations, but it is not the only attraction. The community of Salbertrand, deeply connected to its roots, lights the traditional bonfire at the sports field on the evening that kicks off the festivities. Sunday is marked by Holy Mass in the parish church, the distribution of charity bread by girls in traditional costumes, and the music of the Upper Susa Valley Band.

Culture and territory

Throughout the day, numerous activities enliven the village: wooden games and workshops for children, entertainment, and the opening of the Colombano Romean Ecomuseum, which tells the story of the alpine trades and culture of Salbertrand. The festival is also an opportunity to discover the village, its church, and its mill, in a corner of the Cottian Alps where the Occitan tradition remains a strong identity trait.