Traditional Gioco della Rouotta of Lillianes

A unique game in the world

The Rouotta is an ancient traditional game, preserved almost exclusively in Lillianes (and Chambave), in the Gressoney Valley, Aosta province. Similar in spirit to bowls, it is distinguished by its irregular course dotted with natural obstacles, along which players throw wooden spheres. The name is thought to derive from the Latin ruere (to throw, to run) or rotare, and similar games are documented between the 13th and 16th centuries.

December 26th, whatever the weather

Tradition dictates that the Rouotta is played exclusively on December 26th, St. Stephen's Day, regardless of weather conditions. Once reserved for men only, for several decades it has also welcomed women and external guests, but players continue to use the Lillianes patois during the games. A referee marks penalty points on a card: anyone who makes a wrong throw, positions themselves incorrectly, or forgets the ritual phrases in patois (such as "cochòn en avòn!" to throw the pallino or "apreu mé!" to call the next player) is penalized amidst general merriment.

UNESCO Heritage and conviviality

For its cultural value, the Rouotta of Lillianes is inscribed in the UNESCO Register of Good Safeguarding Practices for intangible heritage. The day concludes with the traditional dinner of cheese risotto and the awards ceremony: winners receive wooden or soapstone sculptures, while the last-place finisher receives the official trophy. A ritual that, between game and community, spans all generations of the village.