Rificolona Lantern Festival in Florence

Sep
2014
03

posted by on Curiosities, Events, History & Culture

 

The 07th of September takes place one of the Florentine most traditional and particular Festivals, the renowned “Rificolona”.
During the itinerary, from Piazza Santa Felicita to Piazza SS. Annunziata, many Florentine children carry colorful paper lanterns, illuminated by a candle.

©teladoiofirenze.it

The origin of this Festival, initially a religious celebration taking place on the 08th of September, dates back to the 17th Century and is due to all the peasants arriving in Florence the night before, in order to get the best places where to sell their products the day after.
Having to walk for all the night for many kilometers, they used to illuminate their way with handmade lanterns and, once in Florence, they were teased by citizens, laughing at them for their weird look and imitating them carrying other lanterns of a highest quality.

©visitflorence.com

The celebration of the Rificolona is today completely different and is one of Florentine children favorite events. Just a few lanterns are still handmade (all of them will be burned at the end of the celebrations), but the original soul of the Festival is still alive and is one of the best occasions for the adults, to remember their childhood.
If you want to discover more about Florence history and traditions, visit our website and find the best activity for you!

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