A blaze of glory

Researching the internet for events this Christmas I discovered one here in Molise the hilltop village of Oratino there is a tradition which dates back originally to Pagan times.

It takes place every year on Christmas Eve and has done so for hundreds of years...

It is an amazing site to behold, requiring a great feat of endurance, and determination to build and erect a thirteen-metre pillar of bamboo cane.

Fascinated by the ceremony and it's history I spoke to Alessandro from the village. He is proud of his job, which is to light the pillar when it in place.

Apparently, it takes four days to make the pillar, after several weeks of collecting cane from the region.

Once it is made, it is then transported through the village by a group of more than forty-eight men, who carry the pillar on their shoulders.

When they arrive in the city centre they hoist the pillar into place in front of the church, with chains and cables.

It was rather worrying from a health and safety perspective but the gang of men doing it seemed to have it under control, clambering up and down ladders, and working as a team to make it safe and secure.

WELL DONE GUYS...

As there were a few hiccups getting it secured it took a little longer than expected but finally the proud Alessandro was able to climb up the church tower and reach out with a burning torch to light the pillar.

It took only a few minutes for the flames to take hold, and it began to burn like a giant candle sparks flying brightly through the air.

Finally, the village priest blesses the pillar linking the church with an age-old tradition which spans history and time.

Again as on so many occasions, I am inspired by the determination of local people of all ages to continue their traditional festivals and events

Unfortunately even here in Molise where there so many fascinating ceremonies and festivals few people even know they exist.

Although in Agnone there is a similar event called the Ndocciata on a much larger scale that has now become fairly well known and is now held twice in December.

The rich culture and history of Molise has so much to offer travellers, adventurers and tourists from overseas as well as those nearer home.

Once again well done Molise, and Oratino... I know you are proud of your origins, your history. your heritage, and your culture
Long may it continue.

Thank you Oratino

Blues rock Campobasso

Campobasso might on the surface appear to be a small provincial city, where people amble sedately through the centre pausing to drink coffee and natter with family and friends.

Of course, as it Christmas people are out in force, enjoying the festive market selling a delectable selection of seasonal fare.

Yesterday evening wandering past the brightly lit shops, I paused for a beer at HOPS UP.
A bar which serves a scrumptious range of beers from all over the world. Last night I tried an American beer, which was quite tasty, and rather different.

Tucked away just off one of the cobbled streets in the old town is a small square called Piazzetta Palombo.

There is a range of small interesting shops run by local craftsmen and entrepreneurs, which I hope to explore a little more.

Last night the piazza with a fire roaring and chestnuts roasting the place literally rocked to the music of a very talented Blues Band called BLUE VISION.

With the ZEPPLIN PUB, (famous in Campobasso for its beer and music), providing a steady stream of beer, and  FUNNATEGLIE from Jelsi serving delicious local food nobody went thirsty or hungry.


Although sadly most people were reluctant to let their hair down and dance the night away, a few threw caution to the wind and cavorted around enthusiastically enjoying the music.

Of course being British I am not afraid to make myself look a total idiot by prancing around to music. Been bought up on a diet of real ROCK, BLUES, JAZZ, REGGAE and PUNK I know how to party.
I thoroughly enjoyed myself and had a great time. I tried with limited success to get more people to join in, and a few did ... So a WELL DONE to all those who did.......

 

At this time of year perhaps more than ever we should pause for a moment to consider just what Chrismas is really all about.

My intention is not to throw a melancholy note into this blog, but as I watched people intent merely on shopping reluctant to smile or even tap their feet to the bright and vibrant music which filled the air last night, I wondered if so many have forgotten what Christmas really is about.

It is a season to be JOLLY, to quote the words of an English Christmas Carol, so come on everyone remember it is not the gifts you give or the food you eat that makes Christmas something special, it is a chance just smile at everyone you meet and to say