11 Crazy Festivals You Won't Believe Actually Exist
7. The Battle Of The Oranges - Italy
Otherwise known as the Ivrea Orange Festival, this organised madness takes place every year in tribute to a young girl who defied a tyrant, thought to be a member of the long-established Ranieri family. According to the legend, this Ranieri character attempted to rape a millers daughter on the eve of her wedding, exercising his supposed right as her lord. Unfortunately for him, this girl wasnt happy to take it lying down, and cut his head off with one mighty swing of the oppressors sword. Once news spread that this fellow had been decapitated, the peasants began to do what they do best revolt. The rulers were overthrown, and this carnival exists to celebrate Ivreas freedom from tyranny and the bravery of a girl known as Violetta, a part played by a local during the festivities. Why oranges are used is unclear, considering that they do not grow in the foothills of the nearby Italian Alps, though one theory suggests that they represent the tyrants severed testicles. One thing is for sure the locals do not mess about when pelting the pretend-henchman. In fact, if you plan on attending as a spectator, you must wear a red cap to signal that you are part of the rebellion, otherwise youre fair game.