Italians are known for the interest they show in celebrations and they possess the most festive calendar in the world. No other part of the world is known to celebrate the way the Italians are known for.
The Easter is the one celebration that is done with pomp and splendour all around the country. Easter Sunday is known for its significance across the globe but when it comes to Italy it is something peculiar in the sense that they celebrate it with bizarre.
There is a great regional variation in the way Easter Sunday is celebrated in the country. Easter Sunday in Firenze is probably the most unique experience especially for non-Italians to watch. The Easter celebrations in Firenze can be traced back to the pagan period with the remnants of the ancient rites of spring still embedded in the culture of the region.
In the local usage this event is called Scoppio or Exploding of the Cart. There is a traditional belief that the farmers of the area who are of pre-Christianity community celebrated during the pagan times in this way. Spring season began with the inauguration of fire rituals during which prayers were held in support of the successful planting season.
Several legends were associated with the lighting of the fire on Easter Sunday. The legendary first crusade warrior Pazzino de’Pazzi who was considered as a hero and was rewarded parts of the Holy Sepulcher has a great role in the lighting of fire.
With the help of the stones fire was lit in his home town and this fire was paraded through the streets of Firenze in recognition of the achievements of this great warrior.
The fire was transported through the lanes of Firanze in a cart called Brindellone on that day to celebrate the doings of John the Baptist who was their patron saint.
The cart underwent changes gradually in the sense that it became beautiful and more adorned as the years passed by. A man dressed up as St. John would throw candies and sweets at the onlookers as the cart passes by the lanes from the top of the cart. The Holy Candle was enlarged as years went by and the fireworks were displayed along with the burning of Catherine wheels.
As time passed this celebration became conducted during the Easter Sunday. Thus this new way of celebration replaced the old method of fire rituals of the pagan times. Same grandeur is attached to its celebration even today. A large number of tourists are witnessing these festive celebrations every year and the Christians opt to conduct parties on Easter Sunday.
Italian Easter traditions are kept alive by the majority of contemporary Italian families. If you would like to learn how to prepare Italian Easter desserts click on the links.
