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La Befana is a beloved figure in Italian Christmas folklore, often referred to as the “Christmas Witch.” She embodies the spirit of giving and is celebrated on the night of January 5, known as Epiphany Eve, when she delivers gifts to children across Italy.
The legend of La Befana is rooted in a blend of Christian and pagan traditions. According to the most popular story, La Befana was an elderly woman who lived in a humble cottage.
One day, she was visited by the Three Wise Men (or Magi) while they were searching for directions to Bethlehem. They invited her to join them on their journey to see the newborn Jesus, but she declined, citing her household chores.
Later that night, feeling regretful and inspired by a bright star in the sky, La Befana decided to pursue the Magi with a basket of gifts for the baby Jesus. Unfortunately, she was unable to find them, leading her to wander each year in search of the Christ child.
As a result, she now visits children on Epiphany Eve, delivering sweets to those who have been good and coal or cinders to those who have misbehaved.
La Befana is typically depicted as an old woman dressed in tattered clothing and covered in soot from entering homes through chimneys. She rides a broomstick, symbolizing her role in sweeping away the old year and making way for the new.
On the night of January 5, children hang stockings or shoes by the fireplace in anticipation of her visit. It is customary for families to leave out treats such as wine or food for La Befana as a gesture of hospitality
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Act of 4 February 1994 on Copyright and Related Rights
This video is fair use under U.S. copyright law because it is noncommercial and transformative in nature, uses no more of the original than necessary, and has no negative effect on the market for the original work.
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2 Comments
Wow. Nice one
That isn't true