Torciata di San Giuseppe a Pitigliano

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On the night of San Giuseppe, March 19th, an ancient and spectacular pagan ceremony already in use at the time of the Etruscans is renewed, involving the whole town. Hooded and dressed in traditional clothing, 40 torchers at the agreed signal set fire to the Invernacciu, an enormous cane puppet that was erected in the center of Piazza della Repubblica in the previous days, to represent winter dying in flames. The large bonfire of the torchers is a good omen for the arrival of Spring. Since the medieval age, a religious meaning has also been associated with the pagan festival, making it coincide with the celebration of Saint Joseph, which falls on the days of the vernal equinox. For the occasion, religious traditions and folklore intertwine, giving life to a moment of celebration that usually begins on March 15th and culminates in the celebrations of March 19th. The historical procession, the lit torches, the trumpet blasts, the street juggling with the fire shows, contribute to creating a very suggestive atmosphere. A series of collateral events will take place in the preceding days.