The Easter Day in Italy
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Pasqua
Easter, or Pasqua in Italian, is a festive holiday throughout Italy. Religious parades and celebrations are held in many towns and cities nationwide. A statue of Jesus or his mother Mary is carried in street processions that involve large crowds of people. Easter meals vary, but include eggs, Easter pie, and lamb.
In Florence, rather, the dove is the protagonist of the famous Scoppio del Carro (Explosion of the Cart); the Scoppio dates back to the time of the First Crusade. The cart is led by white steers from Piazzale del Prato to the Duomo, and a dove (actually a species of pigeon in this case) lights the fireworks contained in the cart. Legend has it that if the explosion goes off without a hitch, the year ahead will be a good one for Florence!
A celebration of spirituality and tradition
Click on the picture above :)
Background
Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, as written in the New Testament of the Christian bible. The roots of the Easter holiday’s traditions and activities can be traced back to pagan celebrations. The name Easter is believed to come from Eostara, the goddess of rebirth. Easter Day is not only celebrated in Italy but also in many countries worldwide.
Click on the goddess of rebirth for more information! :)
Symbols
Eggs in Italian Easter dishes symbolize fertility, renewal and life.