Transhumance and autumn festival in Riva di Tures

For many years now, transhumance in Riva di Tures has been part of the well-known events in South Tyrol. Cows, calves, oxen, bulls, goats, sheep, dogs and cats hurry swiftly to the domestic barn, led by a shepherd overjoyed to be reunited with his own after so many weeks on the alp. Well fed and rested, the beasts look forward to the end of the mountain grazing season as much as they longed for the ascent two months earlier. And the farmers, equally eager to show off their splendid beasts then take the opportunity to celebrate an end-of-season feast. Once upon a time, transhumance meant gratitude that the pasture passed without loss and misfortune and that the animals had found enough pasture. For that reason, the most beautiful cows were decorated with artfully made creations, with a small mirror inside to ward off bad spirits, a crucifix to ask for god's protection, and alpine roses, thistles, and mugo twigs for beauty. This custom has been handed down to the present day, and the organizers of the Transhumance of Riva have been diligently nurturing it for generations. On Sunday around noon, in fact, everyone rushes to the square, an impressive and entertaining procession shows animals and people united in culture and history. Music, folk dances, and local delicacies make the transhumance a celebration for young and old, old and young. Saturday ushers in the event, while Sunday kicks off with a morning concert, and afterwards you may want to have your cameras ready ...