This ritual, known as La Tonca, takes place annually in late June as part of the Feste Vigiliane festival. It re-enacts an ancient punishment enforced by the Trento authorities from the 14th to the 17th century. Historically, individuals convicted of blasphemy were confined in an iron cage and submerged in the Adige River, Italy's second-longest river.
Today, the ritual has lost its violent nature, transforming into a humorous cultural event. It provides local residents with a lighthearted way to hold leaders or influential figures accountable.
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A stunt actor is placed in a cage and lowered into the river. Photo: Snopes
Before the caging and river-dunking spectacle, a mock trial called Tribunale di Penitenza (Court of Penitence) is held publicly. During this event, comedians, playing judges, prosecutors, and lawyers, present sarcastic arguments to determine who is the "worst of the year."
The subjects of debate are diverse, ranging from a president delaying hospital construction to an official opposing a Vasco Rossi concert. Beyond politicians, "defendants" might also include a nurse who faked Covid-19 test results, a group of electors who did not vote, or a bear causing local trouble.
Following the court's verdict, the "criminal" is placed in an iron cage and dunked into the Adige River three times. A stunt actor always performs this role; no politician or official has ever been genuinely thrown into the river.
From 1985 to 2024, volunteer Giorgio Vianini undertook the role, bearing the sins on behalf of the entire city. After his passing in late 2024, his daughter, Tania Vianini, continued the tradition from the 2025 festival season.
The festival occurs in late June, when the weather is mild, ensuring the river is not "icy" as some exaggerated descriptions claim. This blend of historical elements, satirical nature, and entertainment spirit has made La Tonca a unique cultural feature in Trento.
Giorgio Vianini in a cage, lowered into the river in 2019. Video: Trentinoitaly
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