Magic in Italy!

Years before Christianity and later Catholicism took hold, many parts of Italy were infected with witches, paganism and, of course, magic. But even with all the rituals and teachings of the Catholic church, many of the pagan beliefs have survived. It is believed that if you would go to a traditional house or “masseria” on a farm in a certain area in Puglia, you were apt to find a Nymphaeum where fairies used to gather and dance in their flowing white dresses in the moonlight, and where they would bury their treasures.

Although this is considered nonsense by the young, there are some of the older generations living in the poorer overlooked towns who still have a story to two to tell. And what better time to nurture back these stories and embellish them than at Halloween.

HALLOWEEN IN ITALY

Dolcetto-Scherzetto

October 31^st is not a national holiday in Italy and it is only until recently that it has become more of a tradition as a day for children. Children will have their day in school after which they dress up and scout around for candy or little treats. Children’s costume parties are held mainly later in the evening as kids in costume head out for more trick or treating. In the city or village center you may find some local shops decorated and ready to hand out candy to the little ones. But it is not the big fest like it is here in the states.

And now a little magic for you!

Godetevi le feste!