Easter traditions in Italy

Exploring Italy and its culture is real fun. The country has a rich traditional background. Christianity being the main religion followed by the people, Easter stands as an important festival. Being a part of the celebrations and Easter traditions in Italy like, Palm Sunday procession, traditional feasts with “Colomba” and “Pasquetta” are always exciting.

Easter celebrations in Italy

Any and every festival in Italy is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Easter or “Pasqua” as Italian call is perhaps one of the most awaited Italian festivals, which Italians celebrate with their family and friends. As per an Italian saying “Natale con i tuoi e Pasqua con chi vuoi”, which means “Christmas with your family and Easter with whoever”, Italians celebrate this Christian festival with their near and dear ones. This gives them an opportunity to spend quality time with their family and being a part of some of the exciting Easter customs in the country. Feasts, processions, masses and other activities are very much a part of the Easter traditions in Italy.

Well-known Easter traditions in Italy

If you are wondering what to find on visiting this country on the occasion of Easter, you are in for a surprise. You may not really find the bunnies, but you are sure to find lot more than that. Some of the best Easter traditions in Italy are:

La domenica delle palma:

Easter celebrations begin prior to Easter Sunday. This is also known as “La domenica delle palma”. On this day there is a huge procession with people carrying decorated palm branches and branches of olive. The palm leaves are designed with colorful ribbons and colors of gold. The procession is carried out on the previous Sunday of the Easter Sunday.

Easter Processions in Italy

The Easter processions form a major part of the festive traditions in the country. The churches take out the statues of Lord Jesus and Virgin Mary parade them in a procession. After the parade ends, the statues are displayed at the main square. The people participating in the procession are dressed in traditional costumes. Other significant elements like olive branches and palm fronds too are a part of this Easter procession.

Scoppio del Carro

Easter in Florence of Italy follows a major festive tradition known by the name of Scoppio del Carro. A well-decorated wagon in Frorence is dragged through the streets. White oxen pull these wagons to Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, which is also the historic centre of Florence. After the procession ends, the Arcbishop ignites a dove shaped rocket and sends it to the cart. This leads to an ignition in the card and a spectacular firework show. The firework show is followed by a costume parade.

La Madonna Che Scappa in Piazza

Abruzzo in Italy celebrates Easter with a unique tradition. People dress in white and green colored costumes on Easter Sunday. The colors signify resurrection, peace and hope. Women dressed in black leads the procession to the piazza. She plays the role of Virgin Mary. On reaching the main spot, her costume color changes to green and feasts and music shows follows this event.

Last Updated on 25/02/2011