Italy, with its rich cultural and religious heritage, is a country where faith is deeply woven into the fabric of everyday life, especially during the Christmas season. From vibrant nativity scenes to solemn church services, Italian religious traditions are a beautiful reflection of the nation’s long-standing connection to Christianity, particularly Roman Catholicism. December 26, the day after Christmas, marks the celebration of Il Santo Stefano (St. Stephen's Day), which, like many other Italian religious customs, is rich in meaning and steeped in centuries-old practices.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of Italy's most cherished religious traditions, focusing on the celebration of Christmas and St. Stephen’s Day, and highlighting the cultural significance of these holidays throughout Italy.
1. Christmas Eve: La Vigilia and La Messa di Mezzanotte
Christmas in Italy is a two-day celebration, beginning with La Vigilia (Christmas Eve), a night filled with family, feasting, and religious observance. For many Italians, La Vigilia is a more significant occasion than Christmas Day itself. It is traditionally a day of fasting, followed by a festive cenone (big dinner) that is served after attending midnight Mass.
The Feast of the Seven Fishes
One of the most beloved Christmas Eve traditions in Italy, especially in Southern Italy, is the Feast of the Seven Fishes (La Festa dei Sette Pesci). While the number seven is symbolic (representing perfection and completion), the meal typically consists of multiple courses featuring fish and seafood, as it was historically a way to observe the Catholic practice of abstaining from meat before important religious holidays. The menu often includes dishes like baccalà (salted cod), fried shrimp, calamari, and linguine with clams.
Midnight Mass – La Messa di Mezzanotte
For devout Catholics, attending Midnight Mass (La Messa di Mezzanotte) is an important part of Christmas Eve. The service is often celebrated with grandeur, especially in historic churches across the country. The solemnity of the service is a way for Italians to reflect on the birth of Christ and to pray for peace and blessings for the upcoming year. Some of the most beautiful churches to experience this Mass are the Cathedral of Florence, St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and the stunning churches of Naples.
2. Christmas Day: Il Giorno di Natale
On Christmas Day (Il Giorno di Natale), the focus shifts from religious observance to family gatherings, food, and relaxation. For many Italians, this is a time to spend with close family members, enjoying lavish meals and exchanging gifts.
The Christmas Meal
The Christmas Day meal varies from region to region, but it’s always an abundant affair. In the north, bollito misto (a mixed boiled meat dish) is often served, while in the south, lasagna or struffoli (fried dough balls drizzled with honey) might make an appearance. The meal is a time for families to come together and celebrate the blessings of the season, with each region adding its own unique touch to the festivities.
In many Italian homes, it’s also customary to exchange gifts on Christmas Day, especially among immediate family members. While gifts are often modest, the emphasis is placed on thoughtfulness and spending quality time with loved ones.
3. St. Stephen’s Day: Il Santo Stefano (December 26)
December 26 marks the feast of St. Stephen (Il Santo Stefano), the first Christian martyr. In Italy, this holiday is a continuation of the Christmas festivities, but it has its own unique traditions. St. Stephen’s Day is a public holiday across the country, and it is observed with church services, family gatherings, and community celebrations. It is especially important in cities like Rome and Milan, where large processions and Mass services are held in honor of the saint.
The Meaning of St. Stephen’s Day
St. Stephen was a deacon and one of the first Christian martyrs who was stoned to death for his beliefs in the early days of Christianity. His feast day is a day for reflection on his sacrifice and faith. The day is often marked by religious observances, including special Masses, prayers, and processions.
Holiday Continuation: Family and Festive Meals
St. Stephen’s Day is often a more relaxed holiday compared to Christmas itself. Many families take the opportunity to visit relatives, particularly those who may not have been able to join the Christmas Day festivities. In many parts of Italy, it’s common for families to gather again for a large meal, often featuring leftovers from Christmas Day or regional specialties. For example, in Rome, caponata (a sweet and sour eggplant dish) is often served, while in the south, dishes like ciceri e tria (pasta with chickpeas) might be popular.
Boxing Day Sales: A Commercial Tradition
While St. Stephen's Day is primarily a religious holiday, it has also become associated with post-Christmas sales in many parts of Italy. Much like Boxing Day in other countries, shops and stores across the country offer significant discounts, and many Italians take advantage of this opportunity to do some post-holiday shopping or to stock up on discounted holiday decorations.
4. The Presepe Tradition: Nativity Scenes
One of Italy's most enduring Christmas traditions is the creation of elaborate presepi (nativity scenes). The art of crafting nativity scenes dates back to the 13th century when St. Francis of Assisi created the first living nativity scene in Greccio. Today, Italians continue to create beautiful, intricate nativity displays, often featuring not only the Holy Family but also scenes from everyday Italian life, including shepherds, artisans, and market vendors.
The tradition of the presepe is especially strong in Naples, where presepi are sold in bustling markets and even displayed in homes, churches, and public squares throughout the city. The presepe tradition is a significant part of Italy’s Christmas culture and provides a tangible representation of the holiday's religious and cultural significance.
5. Epiphany and the Befana
Although not immediately following Christmas, Italy’s religious holiday celebrations continue until January 6, the feast of the Epiphany. The Befana, an old woman who delivers gifts to children on the night of January 5, is a beloved character in Italian folklore. According to legend, the Befana was too busy with household chores to join the three Wise Men on their journey to visit the newborn Jesus. As a result, she now travels every year, delivering presents to children in hopes of making up for her missed opportunity to bring gifts to Jesus.
The Befana is especially celebrated in cities like Rome and Florence, where processions and festivals are held in her honor.
Conclusion: A Season of Faith and Tradition
In Italy, the Christmas season is a deeply religious and family-oriented celebration. The traditions surrounding Christmas, St. Stephen’s Day, and the following holiday season highlight the importance of faith, family, and community. Whether through the solemnity of Midnight Mass, the joy of family meals, or the reverence for saints like St. Stephen, Italians embrace the spiritual and cultural richness of this time of year. The continuation of these age-old customs, including the art of the presepe and the festive feasts, offers a glimpse into the heart of Italian life, where tradition and faith intertwine to create meaningful, lasting memories.
As you reflect on the holidays this season, take a moment to appreciate the depth of Italy’s religious and cultural traditions, and perhaps, find inspiration for your own celebrations and observances.
Buon Natale e Felice Santo Stefano!