Fòra l'Ours of Urbiano

In the pretty hamlet of Urbiano - in the municipality of Mompantero - an ancient ritual, "Fòra l'ourse" - or "out the bear" or the "bear dance" - takes place every year on the first weekend of February. It is a folk festival rich in meaning and symbolism, evoking an ancient legend. A barbarian-perhaps a Saracen-came to the slopes of Rocciamelone in the 10th century, terrorizing the local people. The man-who spoke an unknown language and was completely covered in hair-was captured, and to make him less dangerous he was given red wine to drink and was also given a dance with the most beautiful girl in the village. The idea worked to such an extent that the man integrated perfectly with the local population. The festival begins on Friday evening, when children and "hunters" search for the bear in the streets of the village, which is dressed up with kiosks full of tasty local products; a veritable eight-stage food and wine walk. The festive air continues until Sunday, when after mass at St. Brigid's church, the main event is held. The bear is captured by "hunters," tied up and brought in chains to the main town square. Along the way, the bear struggles and then becomes more tame after the offering of wine. Upon reaching the square, the bear - a person from the village dressed in goat skins and whose identity is kept secret - dances with the most beautiful girl, who wears the party dress.