8.30am, it's freezing and I'm going to work!
Many workers are in St. Peter square to ornate the Vatican Christmas tree.
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The ‘lupercalia ‘ was an ancient roman pastoral festivity held each February from 13 to 15th. The aim was purifying the city and homes before the beginning of the spring time.
Plutarch made a colorful description of the celebration: “At this time many of the noble youths and of the magistrates run through the city naked, and in their jesting and marry-making strike those whom they meet with thongs. And many women of high rank purposely stand in their way, and like children at school present their hands to be struck, believing that they will be granted an easy delivery if pregnant or become fertile if barren”. |
