Considering spending Christmas in one of our amazing villas in Tuscany this year? Well, then you might need to be introduced to a very important character and figure in Italy during the festive period, particularly if you have any children in your party.
Befana is a witch who holds a special place in the hearts of Italian children during the Christmas season because she is a kind and benevolent figure and many queue up to see her as they would Santa Claus.
So, who exactly is this mysterious Befana? With a name taken from the Roman dialect's pronunciation of the Italian word "epifania" (or Epiphany), Befana is a friendly witch who arrives bearing gifts for well-behaved children and lumps of coal for those on the naughty list each year.
As the story goes, the Three Wise Men sought shelter and a warm meal at Befana's house on their way to Bethlehem and were so charmed by her kindness that they invited her to join them on their journey to meet the newborn Jesus. Befana declined their offer at the time but later had change of heart. She packed toys once used by her own child, who had tragically passed away, and headed off after the Wise Men but never caught up with them. To make up for it, she now delivers her gifts to Italian children on the 5th of January, the night before Epiphany.
Depicted as an elderly woman on a broomstick, she wears a long, dark dress, an apron adorned with patch pockets, a shawl, a crooked hat, and tattered slippers, and leaves presents in stockings hanging by the fireplace.
Nowadays, Santa is often a common figure and many get presents from him on Christmas day but, not too long ago, Christmas in Italy was exclusively a family affair, and children received gifts only on Epiphany, not on Christmas day. But, if you’re on holiday in Tuscany around the 5th of Jaunary you could leave out a bottle of wine or a slice of salami and welcome her to your villa in Tuscany – maybe she’ll even leave a little treat!
