6th January “EPIPHANY”

The history of the Befana begins in the mists of time, it is a magical pre-Christian tradition.

It was an ancient custom to light a large bonfire, as a propitiatory rite, using the wood waste from the work of the fields. The old man was burned and good harvests were called for for the following agricultural season. Before the fire, an abundance of “pan e vin” was asked for.

Participants observing the direction of the sparks that rose to the sky tried to predict future crops.

In the Christian tradition, history is closely linked to that of the Three Kings. The term “Epiphany” derives from the Greek “apparition” and indicates the moment of meeting of the Three Kings with the Child Jesus. It is said that the Three Kings had lost their way and asked an old woman for information. The Magi invited the woman to follow them, but she refused. She repented and from that day began to knock on every door, bringing with her sweets, hoping to find the Baby Jesus.

In Venice, Epiphany is celebrated with a costume event. It is a fantastic regatta on 5-man rowing boats dressed as Befana who parade in a speed competition. The arrival is under the Rialto bridge where a giant “caena” stocking hangs; whoever comes first will have the content of the sock as a reward. The party is animated by “songs and sounds” and it is customary to eat “pinza” (dessert made with old bread) and drink “mulled wine”.