"The law of the gift given by friend to friend is that one soon forgets that he has given, and the other always remembers that he has received" - Seneca, Roman philosopher and dramatist
Bergamo and the magic of Christmas: Bergamo traditions
Christmas is just around the corner and already one has to think to the most suitable gift to put under the tree. Yet, although many consider this holiday a mere commercial event, Christmas actually represents something more. This is the right occasion to show affection and gratitude towards the people we love through the exchange of small gifts. And it also means rediscovering the origins of where you live confronting local customs and traditions. For this reason, today we would like to take a look at the traditions older than our own Bergamolulled for a moment by the fascination of history and the Bergamasque folklore. Let Bergamo and the magic of Christmas begin!
Bergamo and the magic of Christmas: the Orobie bagpipes
One of the customs most significant in Bergamo is certainly that of the baghètan ancient instrument of medieval origin commonly called 'Orobie bagpipes'. Its distinctive sound opens the door to the Christmas season.
Until the early 20th century, this instrument was part of the Bergamasque folklorebecause it was played by shepherds and herdsmen eager to announce the beginning of Advent. It fell into disuse in the 1950s at the same time as the decline in farming activities, the bagpipes of Bergamo has since been recovered by folk instrument enthusiasts. The 1980s and 1990s saw the birth of numerous associations in defence of this ancient tradition. That is why today it is not uncommon to come across players covered in long cloaks, busy playing the typical Christmas carols of bergamasque valleys.
Bergamo and the magic of Christmas: the Santa Lucia fair
On the occasion of the St Lucy's Fairone of the most popular festivities in Bergamo, stalls of all kinds form a Christmas market. In the famous Sentierone street, an evocative atmosphere is thus created. In ancient times, this fair was celebrated at the Church and convent of Santa Lucia Vecchia, on the very site where it now stands. Frizzoni Palaceheadquarters of the Municipality of Bergamo.
Today, however, this area offers a festive ambience, where local products and handicrafts can be found, and typical specialities, fritters and roasted chestnuts can be enjoyed. A similar atmosphere is also provided by the characteristic Christmas markets held annually at the Donizetti Theatre or at Piazza Dante. Original gifts for family and friends can be found here: the wooden houses offer creative decorations, handmade items, and culinar products.
And we must not forget, that another very widespread and popular custom in this period is that of decorating churches and setting up by nativity scenes in places of worshipstreets and squares in any built-up area.
Bergamo and the magic of Christmas: what to give at Christmas
But what are the gifts what typically awaits us under the Christmas tree? According to some surveys, points of sale large retailers remain the preferred destinations for the purchase of clothing and footwearbut also books, records and toys. However, there is a gradual increase in online shopping and a greater reliance on e-commerce. This is because more and more different brands, companies and sales groups are trying to offer a wide variety of products and services at very low prices. Excursions, short stays abroad, gallant dinners, seats in wellness centres specialised and many other activities are now within the reach of anyone, at any time, with extensive customisation possibilities and a high degree of reliability.
Give the gift of a La Cascade wellness package
And speaking of wellness centres, we would like to remind you that at our facility you can giving wellbeing during the festive season. You can choose from various packages and gift ideas and customise your Christmas experience: the surprise this year is guaranteed! To find out more, visit our page wellness gift ideas
