The great historical reconstruction of Breil-sur-Roya

Between two visits to his patients, David Allavena-Zozio leaves his liberal nurse’s blouse to put on a costume of another age. At 42, he chaired in Stadaca, which means “tie, attach” to Breillois, the language of Breil-sur-Roya (Alpes-Maritimes). This association is at the origin of one of the oldest historical reconstructions in the Nice country, an event that deeply shapes the identity of the village.

Indeed, every four years, the third Sunday in July – The next edition takes place in 2027 -, the town goes back the thread of time until the 12th century to revive an episode founding of its identity: the revolt of the villagers against the right of cooking imposed by their lord.

Dilted by his subjects, the tyrant is dragged before a court, tried, condemned … Then pardoned by the parish priest, in a final full of emotion after many twists and turns. In the alleys of Breil-sur-Roya, the scenes are linked between folk dance, songs, fifres music and drums. More than 110 costumed inhabitants give body to this popular fresco. All are children in the country, animated by the same will: to bring the spirit of A Stacada to life.

Make the language alive

Among them, David, in the central role of Spailler, the one who leads the revolt dancing. “Since little, I have been fascinated by this story. I started as a figure, then I was chief guard of the Lord. To embody Spailler is an honor, ”he says. Like many in Breil, he sees in this party a way of transmitting the living memory of the valley, his spirit of rebellion … and emancipation.

Formerly attached to the county of Ventimille, Breil has retained his language: the Breillois, used throughout the reconstruction. A language that David masters thanks to Marie-Louise Toesca, guardian of this oral and clothing tradition. Discreet but unavoidable, she watches in the shadow of the fidelity of dialogues and costumes. “It was she who taught me everything,” admits David. By her side, she adjusts a tunic, takes photos of past editions and whispers, shiny eyes: “In Stacada, it’s in my flesh. »»

Reunite generations

In Breil-sur-Roya, the inhabitants crowd to participate in the next edition, scheduled for 2027. The costumes, carefully stored on hangers in the association premises the call for the next summer. Until then, the small hands of the valley will resume thread and needle, the rehearsals will animate the evenings, and a secret vote will designate the one that will embody the bride who will be saved, once again, from the claws of the Lord.

In the meantime, Spailler watches. In his heart, as in that of a whole village, in Stacada maintains a lively flame, which lights up the past and brings together generations thanks to a fervor remained intact.