Befana Day in Italy

This day is not just to say "goodbye" to Christmas; it is a day of great celebration in many parts of the world where the Catholic tradition is followed. January 6 represents the moment when Jesus manifested himself in public. On this day, therefore, there are religious and folkloric celebrations, from the parades of the Reyes Magos in Spain to the arrival of the Befana in Italy.This cute little old lady, with her sharp nose and long chin, riding her broomstick, is, without a doubt, part of Italy's cultural heritage, since the Befana is precisely synonymous with Epiphany in Italy.

As the Three Kings finally arrive at the grotto to bring gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, Italian children wait for the Befana in Italy to bring them the traditional stocking filled with treats or the dreaded coal.

What is the origin of this celebration? The celebration of the befana in Italy mixes religious and pagan traditions.First of all, the word "Befana" is nothing more than a distortion of the term "Epiphany."

This curious character, reminiscent of ancient pagan rituals, may symbolize the year just ended, stand in for Santa Lucia or Santa Claus in the distribution of gifts, and even offer direction to the Magi on their journey to Bethlehem. Whatever the origin of Befana Day in Italy, there are many towns on the peninsula that celebrate the arrival of this folkloric character. From North to South, children in towns and cities hold their breath waiting for their stocking to be filled. This tradition can turn into a great excuse to discover new destinations to visit in Italy in January.