In Geneva festival l’Escalade is about to start

It has lasted for three days – from Friday to Sunday – in the weekends closest to the 11-th of December. This festival is dedicated to the victory of citizens over the troops of Duke of Savoy and independence on Carolingian dynasty in 1602.

By the way, Geneva had remained independent till attachment to Swiss Confederation in 1815. Since then the night from 11-th to 12-th of December – when the city was attacked – is celebrated in Geneva as one of the most prominent and favorite holiday of inhabitants. On the special case there is a range of festive events called Festival l’Escalade that in translation from French “Escalader” means “military fortress assault using ladders”, or to scale a ladder, to climb”.

First of all, December festival is a colorful costume Medieval action where the whole city participates. These days disguised in ancient costumes Genevese people walk holding drums and flutes, and hoary warriors launch gun firing.

The highpoint of festival program is equestrian performance of guardsmen with torches and mulled wine, and spectacular parade. The holiday is finished with the huge bonfire.

Besides that, according to the legend, the key role in salvation of city was played by Mère Royaume who poured boiling hot vegetable soup upon the heads of enemies climbing up the walls. Since then, this dish is the main symbol of the holiday.

Taking into account a fact that Geneva is considered as gastronomic capital of Switzerland, there are a huge amount of different cafes and restaurants, everybody who wants, of course, may taste dishes of the local cuisine and refresh themselves in the holiday. That is why if stay in Geneva in December, attend this really wonderful event – Festival d’Escalade which moves all the participants centuries ago and which cannot be spoilt even by sloppy December weather.