Ivrea Carnival, Italy

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What is the Ivrea Carnival?

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The Carnival of Ivrea, also known as the Battle of the Oranges, is an annual celebration held in the city of Ivrea in northern Italy. During carnivals it holds a great battle of oranges, becoming the biggest food fight in Italy and surrounding countries.

The Carnival of Ivrea is a unique event where history and fantasy blend, giving life to a great community celebration full of symbolism and traditional values. Throughout history, each period has added some elements to the Carnival, usually events that represented the people during these periods of time. In this way, the festivities have evolved in such a way that they reflect a combination oftraditional rituals, characters and ceremonies.

 

The Ivrea Carnivals boast a long list of events, activities and protocols that they hold every day from Epiphany or Magi Day to Ash Wednesday. However, the Carnival of Ivrea is famous for theBattle of the Oranges that takes place in the main squares of the city from Sunday to Carnival Tuesday.

The celebration is the recreation of the uprising of the town during the Marquisate of Montferrato. The story goes that during this time, the Miller’s Daughter freed the town from the tyrant with a heroic gesture of rebellion against theright of pernada or jus primae noctis, which was a supposed right that granted feudal lords to have sexual relations with any man or woman. The famous Battle of the Oranges is the reenactment of this popular rebellion.

The carnivals have a particular one during the day of the festival, since, by order of the General, all citizens and tourists must wear from Shrove Thursday until the end of the Carnival, the berretto frigio, a sombrero or red cap in the shape of a sock that represents the symbolic support for the popular revolt and its aspiration for freedom.

The Carnival of Ivrea has been recognized as an “Italian Event of International Importance“, as indicated by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers. The respect for history and popular traditions described in the Protocol of the Historic Carnival of Ivrea (Cerimoniale dello Storico Carnevale di Ivrea) are what make the Carnival of Ivrea an international celebration.

 

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When is the Carnival of Ivrea?

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The Ivrea Carnival is a celebration that extends for about7 weeks, as it performs certain ceremonies or protocols from Epiphany. Generally, the carnival begins on January 6, Epiphany, until Ash Wednesday, encompassing a large number of events.

The Carnival of Ivrea will take place from approximately January 6 to February 17.

 

 

History of the Ivrea Carnivals

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The Carnival of Ivrea is one of the oldest historical celebrations in Italy, whose first events date back to the Middle Ages. The Zappata and the burning of the Scarlo were among the first traditions, which were carried out by the Abbàs until the end of the 18th century. These traditions were only transmitted orally until 1808, when the first documentation of the ceremonies appeared. Over the years, the carnivals acquired various elements based on historical events. In addition, the characters that are recognized in the carnivals were gradually integrated.

 

The revolt against Biandrate

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The Carnival of Ivrea is based on myths revolving around two tyrants who used to oppress their peoples. One of them was Ranieri di Biandrate, who was appointed to rule Ivrea. This character oppressed the community with the jus primae noctis and the jus molitorius, provoking an uprising in 1194 that set the people free. In addition, it also mixes the tyranny of the Marquis of Monferrato, an event that occurred 100 years later.

 

The First General

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After the invasion to the Napoleonic Army in the early 1800s, since then the carnivals were celebrated individually in each parish with parties, parades, banquets, fireworks and theburning of the Scarlo in the square. However, in the year 1808 the parishes united for a big event, starting the official celebration of the carnivals of Ivrea.

For the celebration a member of the town council was chosen, who was to function as the General. Since then, the title has passed through various characters.

 

The Battle of the Oranges

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In the 19th century, when the celebration was mainly an event for the middle classes, people threw oranges during the Gala delle Vetture, a procession consisting of carriages covered with flower garlands. At first the oranges were thrown by young ladies to their admirers, but later they were thrown by both men and women in a slightly more violent manner.

In the middle of the century it was announced that, for the best outcome of the carnivals, the tradition of the oranges had been forbidden to be performed so roughly. Today the ceremony is performed with some protective utensils and on a platform.

Stato Maggiore

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Nobody knows the exact date of the creation of this character who helps the General with the organization and management of the Carnival. However, it is inspired by a Napoleonic military corps and the command of a general.

 

The Mugnaia

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The Mugnaia was first documented in 1858. Before this date, the role of Violetta was played by the last bride of the neighborhood, who was called to perform the respective Zappata. According to tradition, the role of the Mugnaia could be played only once in a lifetime. However, in the second half of the 19th century three women functioned as the Mugnaia for two times.

The image of the Mugnaia is a symbol of freedom, since it is said that she was the one who killed a tyrant while he had ordered to take her to his castle to comply with the jus primae noctis. This law allowed feudal lords to have sex with whomever they wanted.

 

Recognition by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers

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In 1956 the Carnival of Ivrea was recognized by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, which included the Carnival as part of the internationally recognized events of Italy.

The Carnival of Ivrea today constitutes one of the most important and oldest celebrations in Italy, possessing traditional elements since its beginnings. However, the carnival absorbs modern elements, which makes it a unique and particular celebration that you should visit on your next vacation.

 

Where is the Carnival of Ivrea?

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The Carnival takes place in a town called Ivrea, located in the city of Turin, northwestern Italy, Europe.

 

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How the Carnival of Ivrea is celebrated

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The carnival days in the town of Ivrea are packed with activities such as commemorative ceremonies, dances, meals, the battle of the oranges and the traditional Historical Parade. Despite having a large number of events; we are going to point you to some that we consider the most iconic and traditional.

 

Transfer of power to the General

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During the first days of the carnival, the handover of power to the General by the mayor takes place at the town hall. The delivery consists of giving the general the red and white stripe that is worn over the right shoulder. In addition, sashes are also given to the other support officers who assist the General in his carnival duties.

 

The Historical Parade

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The parade takes place in the streets of Ivrea and includes the various characters that have been part of the continuing transformation of the carnivals over the centuries.

The parade is led by Violetta or the Mugnaia who is accompanied by her husband, the General and the General Staff, the Deputy Chancellor. In addition, the flags of the 5 districts of Ivrea are spotted. The parade is a true spectacle of historical color that is accompanied by the traditional band of percussion and wind instruments. The event is an authentic medieval setting comprising a golden chariot and dozens of horses galloping with the streets of Ivrea.

The parade is one of the most widely attended ceremonies, along with the battle of the oranges. During the event, participate carroaches, folklore groups and musical bands, some come from other regions of Italy and countries in Europe. In this way, the carnival is always in contact with new national and international elements, adding to it a rich and varied culture every year.

The carnival has 5 characters of great importance within the festivities, which are:

 

Vezzosa Mugnaia

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She is also known as simply Mugnaia. She is the miller’s daughter, called Violetta, who is the true protagonist of the Carnival, constituting herself as asymbol of freedom and has been the heroine of the festivities since her first appearance in 1858.

The Mugnaia wears a white dress representing purity. In addition, she wears the berretto frigio because she represents the heroine of rebellion. Mugnaia parades in her Golden Chariot as a sign of victory.

 

Generale or General

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This character with boasts a prominence like that of Vezzosa Mugnaia. In addition, his presence represents the authority to supervise the public order throughout the Carnival.

The General wears the feluca, bicornio or two-cornered hat adorned with white ostrich feathers, a white and red band, white boots, gloves and pants and a black jacket with gold details and shoulder pads.

The Generale takes office on January 6 each year when he receives the feluca and the general’s saber of the previous year. In addition, he must attend official and unofficial events and has 4 characters who support him during the party: Ufficiali dello Stato Maggiore, Addetto al Generale, Aiutanti di Campo and Vivandiere..

 

Ufficiali dello Stato Maggiore

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Supports the General and is characterized by uniform colors which are red and blue. The highest ranking officers are recognizable by their white pants, while all others wear blue pants with red stripes.

 

Substitute Grand Cancelliere or Substitute Grand Chancellor

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He is known as the reporter of carnival events. He is a very important character in the history of the Carnival of Ivrea and is always present alongside the General and the Ufficiali dello Stato Maggiore. Its purpose is to document every official occasion.

The Sostituto Gran Cancelliere features black velvet suit, white wig with ponytail and white three-pointed hat.

 

Abbà

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These characters were the ones who organized the carnivals in the days of yore. Today they are made up of 10 children, 2 each from the 5 parishes of Ivrea, and they wear the colors of their parish flags.

In addition, the carnival has some iconic traditional events that are as old as the carnivals themselves:

 

Burning of the Scarlo

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It is a ceremony where large bonfires made of a pole covered with heather and juniper are positioned.

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Zappata

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It is an ancient ritual of digging the hole for the Scarlo. Tradition requires that on Carnival Monday the last bride of the year must be escorted by the General and head towards the place where the Scarlo will be placed. The groom is escorted by the Sostituto Gran Cancelliere to the same place. The groom and the bride take pick and shovel and hit the ground at the same place.

 

Battle of the Oranges

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The Battle of the Oranges is the most anticipated event of the carnivals. This battle takes place over three days during the carnival period and is performed by 9 teams on foot, who represent the population that rebelled years ago and the “Aranceri” who ride in horse-drawn carriages that feudal armies.

Each of the nine teams has its own established location in the city, with old teams dating from 1947 to 1985, and each of the teams throws oranges from a different position. Likewise, the Aranceri are divided into two, those on horses and those on a chariot filled with oranges, which are also thrown to the various teams.

 

Gastronomic traditions

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On the Sundays before Carnival and during the most important days of Carnival, the “Fagiolate” is held in the various neighborhoods of the town. The fagiolata, or fagiolate in plural, is a dish of bean soup that dates back to the Middle Ages, when beans were distributed to the poor by the Brotherhoods. Tons of food is prepared at the event among onions, pork and sausages.

In addition, it is also customary to eat polenta with cod and Vin brulé, a mulled wine made by mixing wine and spices.

 

Burning of the Scarlo

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It is one of the events that closes the celebration of the carnivals. During the event there is also a small walk with torches that are the ones that light the large pole of herbs known as the Scarlo. The ceremony takes place in the town square. The ritual represents the burning of the past and ushers in spring.

 

Tips for going to the Carnival of Ivrea

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If you wish to visit the carnivals of Ivrea, we recommend you to plan your trip in advance, make a travel itinerary and book the accommodation of your choice in advance.

Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes so that you can fully enjoy your carnival festivities.

Finally, we recommend you to follow the carnival rules and wear the berretto frigio from Carnival Thursday until the end of the festivities. This order is imposed by the General who takes control of the town during the celebrations.

 

Events in Ivrea Carnival

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The Carnival of Ivrea has a long schedule of events that take place from early January until Cinder Wednesday. Generally, the days are divided between morning events and afternoon events. Due to the large number of events taking place, we will do our best to summarize it as best we can.

 

Epiphany: January 6

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Events during the morning

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Entrance of the carnival musical bands, which is composed mainly of percussion and air instruments. The band takes a stroll through Ivrea during the event.

The swearing-in ceremony of the General, who receives the saber and feluca that characterize one of the main characters of the carnival.

Events during the afternoon

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During the afternoon there is a small procession and some religious ceremonies in the village church.

 

Antepenultimate Saturday of Carnival

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Events during the afternoon

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The introduction of the Abbà to the carnival and the Stato Maggiore takes place.

 

Antepenultimate Sunday of Carnival

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Events during the morning

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A Fagiolate is elaborated

Delivery of the record book, which will be used by the Substitute Grand Chancellor to make a closing speech of all carnival activities.

An Ancient military ceremony is held in the Piazza di Città or Main Square. During the ceremony the carnival flag is raised.

Finally, a banquet is held for the General and the Stato Maggiore.

Events during the afternoon

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The selection of the 10 Abbà takes place, two for each parish that composes the village.

At the entrance of the village a song addressed to the General known as Generala is played.

 

Penultimate Sunday of Carnival

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Events during the morning

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The first event that takes place is the Fagiolate in the different points of the village.

Reconciliation ceremony of the parishes of Rioni di San Maurizio and Borghetto on Ponte Vecchio. The ceremony tells the story of an ancient resentment between the two parishes, which was resolved thanks to the help of the women of both areas. After the ceremony, a banquet is held.

Events during the afternoon

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During the afternoon, the same ceremonies are held as on the antepenultimate day of Carnival with the Abba and the Generala..

 

Carnival Thursday

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Morning events

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The Generale visits the schools together with the Stato Maggiore.

Events during the afternoon

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The handover of powers to the General takes place in thePiazza di Ivrea. After the ceremony, the General gives the order to wear the berretto frigio.

The first historical Parade of the festivities takes place from the town center to the castle.

The Bishop of the town pays a visit to the castle, where he performs an initiation ritual for the Abbà. The ceremony ends with food and music.

Visit of the mayor to the town square.

A children’s party is held in Piazza Ottinetti.

Fagiolata.

The Generala is played again.

Finally, a commemoration is made to all the people who has performed exemplary labors during the carnivals.

 

Friday of Carnival

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During this day a dinner organized by the citizens of Ivrea is held.

 

Saturday of Carnival

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Events during the morning

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The General and the Stato Maggiore pays a visit to the authorities of Ivrea.

The presentation of the Guard of Honor of the Mugnaia takes place in the town square.

Events during the afternoon

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The presentation of the Vezzosa Mugnaia takes place on the balconies of the town hall.

This is followed by the second Historical Parade with the presence of the General, the Guard of Honor, the Stato Maggiore, Mugnaia and the rest of the participants. The parade ends in the town square with dancing and music.

Finally, each grouping that participates in the battle of the oranges holds a party in the city squares.

 

 

Carnival Sunday

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Events during the morning

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The respective Fagiolate takes place.

The Pledge of Allegiance takes place in the town square.

The Mugnaia and the General pay a visit to the town’s bean festival.

Events during the afternoon

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The third Historic Parade is held, followed by the first battle of Oranges, ending with a Generala in the town square.

 

Monday of Carnival

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Events during the morning

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It takes place in Zappate where the Scarlo will go with the ceremony of the pick and shovel with the bride and groom.

Events during the afternoon

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A Historical Parade takes place, followed by a battle of oranges, ending with a Generala in the town square.

 

Carnival Tuesday

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Events during the morning

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A march is held with the Historic Parade and a battle of oranges. In addition, awards are presented to the teams and floats participating in the battles.

Events during the afternoon

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The parade makes a last mobilization to where the Burning of the Scarlo will take place, followed by a parade with torches and the burning of large poles covered with dried grass.

A funeral procession is held with the presentation of the musical band to commemorate the end of the carnival. The parade ends in Piazza Ottinetti where an evaluation of the carnival events is made.

The closing ceremony takes place where all the symbols of the carnival are removed and the festivities are closed.

 

Cinder Wednesday

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Events during the morning

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During the morning, the distribution of polenta con bacalao takes place, where all the main characters and the Bishop of the town participate.

 

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Ivrea Carnival Parades

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The parade takes place with the presence of the General, the Guard of Honor, the Stato Maggiore, Mugnaia and the rest of the participants. The whole parade is accompanied by a great music and dance event. The parade is one of the most awaited events, as it represents the liberation of the people from the tyrants. In addition, it is a feeling of identity and nationality that the locals celebrate every year. The ceremony is characterized by thelarge golden float where the Mugnaia is placed and the horses that pull it.

 

Parade route

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The parades take place in the main streets of Ivrea, touch the main square of the city and the castle.

 

 

What to eat at the Carnival of Ivrea[/h2>?

One of the celebrations during the carnival the fagiolata or fagiolate in plural, which is a large feast in which plates and plates of bean soup are served with some pieces of pig meat and sausage. The tradition dates back to the Middle Ages when dried beans were distributed to the poorest families and represented one of the few actions of the wealthy society performed with the purpose of helping the poor.

One of the traditional drinks is the vin brulé, a hot drink made with wine and spices. It is usually made with oranges, lemon, apple, wine, cinnamon, sugar, cloves, nutmeg and brought to a simmer until the sugar dissolves.

In addition, the city of Ivrea offers you some options for eating out. Some of these are Ocio, Vineria Caino, Ristorante la Rava e la Fava and La Mugnaia. These offer a wine list and local food.

 

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Travel Insurance

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From Carnavalesdelmundo.org we recommend hiring a good insurance to visit this carnival and know the rest of the country. For being our readers we offer a 5% discount on all IATI insurance. Read more information about all insurance offers here:

 

 

What to see and do inside the Ivrea Carnival

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Inside the carnival you can see the incredible parade with all the historical characters that have shaped the carnival for centuries. In addition, you can attend the various music and dance events that take place during the first days of the carnival. Also, you can witness the incredible battle of oranges that takes place between the various carnival groups and the floats representing the feudal lords.

Finally, don’t forget to attend thefood fairs with the bean soups and polenta with cod. Be sure to attend the burning of the Scarlo, as it represents the closing ceremony and is an imposing spectacle of flames.

If you don’t want to complicate things, here you can book interesting excursions in Spanish in this city:.

 

What to see and do outside the Ivrea Carnivals

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Some of the tourist attractions in Ivrea are:

Centro Storico

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It is the historical center of the town and has a lot of historical buildings and commemorations. In its surroundings you can find some food stores and places of interest.

 

Pier Alessandro Garda Civic Museum

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It is a historical museum that is composed of a large number of artistic pieces and historical artifacts. It also has a wealth of information and documentation on the history of the region and the city.

 

Chiesa di San Bernardino

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It is a picturesque church with a simple facade and inside you can find a lot of images and pieces of art and painting about the different religious historical processes.

Also if you want to visit museums and important buildings in this city we recommend you to book your entrance ticket in advance through Tiquets: .

 

Safety at the Ivrea Carnival

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Ivrea is a generally safe place, so you don’t have to worry if you decide to visit during the carnival festivities. Your best ally at parties is common sense and modesty, if you use them you will have exceptional carnivals.

It is always a good idea to keep your personal items and valuables in a safe place. Also, we recommend the following products to keep your items safe:

 

 

Weather at the Carnival of Ivrea

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During Carnival, Ivrea can be a bit chilly, as temperatures range from -1 to 9 degrees Celsius. We advise you to pack warm clothes to attend the carnivals.

 

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How to get to the Carnival of Ivrea

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How to get there by plane

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The closest airport to Ivrea is Turin Airport, which is about 40 kilometers from the town and receives a large number of flights. Once you are here, you can use the various means of transportation to reach Ivrea.

We recommend buying airline tickets through Kiwi.com or Skyscanner where they are usually cheaper. More information on this link to review Kiwi.com..

 

How to get there by train

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From the airport take the train to Torino Sora Station on the SFMA line. Once there, transfer and take the streetcar on line 10 to station 27 at XVIII Dicembre. Again transfer and take a train from Porta Susa to Ivrea on the RE line.

You can also take a bus to Porta Susa on lines 268, 3165, 165 and 370. Then transfer by train to Ivrea on the RE line.

 

How to get there by bus

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You can take a bus to Porta Susa on lines 268, 3165, 165 and 370, then transfer and take a bus again on line 265 to Ivrea.

 

How to get there by car

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From the airport you can take the A5 to Ivrea. The journey takes 40 minutes.

 

Where to stay at the Carnival of Ivrea

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Booking.com

 

La Villa; Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western

3-star hotel 3.5 km from Ivrea. Rooms have furniture, television and private bathroom. Facilities include bar, restaurant, breakfast, parking and free wifi.

 

Albergo Luca

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2-star hotel 350 meters from Ivrea. Rooms have TV and private bathroom. Facilities include free wifi and free parking.

 

Re Arduino Ivrea

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Aparthotel 150 meters from Ivrea. The establishment offers garden, housekeeping service, equipped kitchen and TV in the living room.

 

We recommend you to use Booking.com to book hotels at a good price, check more information here:.

 

Booking.com

 

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