Thursday before Lent

 

In the early afternoon, the mayor hands over his civic powers to the General, whose proclamation to the town is read by the Sostituto Gran Cancelliere.

Next, the standard-bearers with the flags of the five districts, together with the band, the General and his staff, the Vivandières and the Abbà go to pay their respects to the Bishop of Ivrea.

 

 

     

 

 

In the evening, the old part of Ivrea is crowded with people wearing masks. This recent addition to the carnival programme has quickly caught on. The serious, historical side of the proceedings is laid aside and free rein is given to the crazy merry-making that rightly accompanies the carnival spirit amid a welter of noise, singing and dancing, with beans and wine for one and all.