On Saturday, September 27, it’s time for the Investiture of the Podestà, which takes place in the evocative setting of Piazza Risorgimento.
The ceremony is an invitation to savor the Donkey Palio and the Medieval Parade. The Borghi Albesi (Boroughs of Alba), the Gruppo Storico Città di Alba (Historical Group of the City of Alba), and the Gruppo Sbandieratori Città di Alba (Flag-Waving Group of the City of Alba) will bring to life an episode dating back to the year 1275, in which the Capitano del Popolo, Alfonso Falletti, appoints the Knight Raimondo Artusio as Podestà of the free Municipality of Alba, in defense against the mercenaries from Asti who threaten the city’s walls. The Podestà thus takes an oath and receives the symbols of power from the Capitano del Popolo, including the keys to the city. The Boroughs, after the act of submission, request permission to hold the Donkey Palio, and the Podestà, in granting his approval, orders the festivities to begin.
