Aosta, N Italy, spectacularly located within Alps tends to be one of those places
discovered by accident leaving a lasting impression. It is almost at the crossroads with France and Switzerland and near the Italian entrance of the
Mont Blanc Tunnel.
The ancient inhabitant of the valley was the Celtic
Salassi tribe. The tribe of banditry made it difficult for explorers to
traverse the territory. The Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus subdued the tribe,
built roads and the city of Aosta. In 25 BC, Augustus erected the Arch of
Augustus, marking the triumph of the Romans over the barbarian tribe. The Roman walls and the ruins
of Teatro Romano among other remains bear witness to Aosta's heritage.
Every year, on the last two days of January, Aosta hosts
the eight hundred year old Fair of St. Orso. The origins of the fair are
unknown, but it is certain that there has always been a gathering of shepherds
and farmers in the town, offering their hand-carved objects in exchange for the
tools associated with agriculture and cooking. Today the fair offers variety of
items from handmade lace, baskets to clogs, wines and more.
Arch of Augustus
Part of Roman walls
Teatro Romano
Official website of Aosta and more info about fair at: http://www.lovevda.it/en
