…….it's the
middle of Winter: hot chestnuts and
fresh ricotta, piping hot cappuccino
and acquacotta. And bright blazing
bonfires in honour of St. Antonio
Abate on 17th January and the charming
benediction of animals in various
towns, such as Canino, Monte Romano,
Tuscania and Allumiere.
At the very beginning of the year,
though, Italy's still in festive mood:
Twelfth Night (Ephiphany - 6th January)
is the day of "La Befana".
Watch out for brightly lit market
stalls selling sweets and "coal".
St. Antonio Abate Allumiere
After the Holy Mass, fritters, rice
cakes and chestnuts are freely distributed
to all. Masked figures and games,
allegorical floats and the blessing
of the animals (pets and farmyard
beasts) in the main square.
To end the day, a horse race through
the streets: "cavalli mal
fantino".
Versione Italiana
