[Image from Village.fortunecity.com]"In Babbo Natale, Italy has its own Father Christmas. But it's La Befana, the ugly, broom-flying and present-wielding witch who keeps children on their toes in many parts of the country. Like St. Nick, Befana knows who's been naughty and nice.
"A strange post-Christmas pilgrimage takes place each year in the hills of northeastern Italy's Le March, when thousands of kids flock to a small medieval town called Urbania to sit on the lap of an ugly old witch. On the eve of Jan 6, La Befana flies down chimneys or through keyholes throughout Italy to have her say over who's been naughty or nice."
This fascinating tale, resonant with our own traditions, is told in more detail in an article by Michael Giglio writing for Spiegel Online, here.
What is most interesting is how cultural traditions develop in different areas along common themes.
In this country, Santa and his "naughty or nice" schtick is a variation of Christianity's heaven and hell. Be good or else!
Happy Holidays! Merry La Befana?
No comments:
Post a Comment