Adelaide of Susa (1020-1091) played a fundamental role in determining the fate of a vast territory. Daughter of Olderico Manfredo II, Count of Turin and Marquis of Susa, she married Ottone of Savoy, reuniting the estates of the Savoy dynasty with the lands of the Arduinici, which extended from the Alpine passes to the Ligurian Sea. After being widowed, she succeeded in defending and ruling over her territories. In 1077, she was the protagonist of the reconciliation between Emperor Henry IV and Pope Gregory VII.
Adelaide is remembered every year by a Historical Tournament in which the six hamlets of Susa compete in archery competitions, Saracen jousting and a tug-of-war. The tournament is preceded by the historical parade through the streets of the town, with hundreds of costumed participants.
Img credits: www.laboratoriovalsusa.it
