The fire of Christmas lives in Abbadia San Salvatore

Dec 17, 2021 420

BY: Luca Signorini

There is a place in Tuscany’s Mount Amiata region, where Christmas is synonym with fire. In truth, the connection between the two is quite common across the country, with ritual fire celebrations like those in Nemoli (Basilicata), Agnone (Molise), and Calabatiano (Sicily). Up North, in Liguria, the popular confuoco takes place in many towns and villages, either on Christmas Eve or closer to the new year. 

The role of all these traditions, which are usually rooted in our most ancient past, is varied; fire has always been a symbol, even before the advent of Christianity, of purification and protection against evil. Because it provides light and warmth, fire also has a strong connection with life and vital energy. But it is also closely connected with Christian lore: especially around Christmas, lighting it meant providing symbolic warmth and protection to the Christ Child and His parents. 

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SOURCE: https://italoamericano.org/

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