Battle of the Queens

Tradition

The Bataille des Reines is a centuries-old tradition in the Aosta Valley that celebrates the natural hierarchical instinct of black-and-brown spotted cows. At the start of the alpine grazing season, the cows spontaneously face off to determine the herd leader (the Reina).

Under the revised schedule of the Concours régional, the event is held in Étroubles every other year.

The Event

The local qualifying rounds take place on the meadows of the Upper Valley, drawing in breeders and enthusiasts from across the region:

• The cows, divided into three weight categories, face off in pairs, locking horns in a head-to-head battle
• The contest is entirely bloodless: the first cow to back away or turn around yields to her opponent
• The winners of the qualifying rounds in the three weight categories advance to the prestigious regional fall final at the Croix-Noire in Aosta.