What better way to wind up the hottest part of summer than with a Ferragosto post, right? Still, I can hear you asking, “Ferragosto? What in the world is that?” Well, it means August vacation. And it’s the official celebration day (on August 15) of the summer vacation from work.
Ferragosto is a holiday period that originally started out as a week-long celebration. But has in modern times, it has evolved into an entire month off from work! Think that sounds great? That’s because it is!
But many businesses and shops (except in tourist areas) are also closed for most of the month. This can make life a bit difficult! Even government offices and even some hospitals operate with only minimal staff!
The August holidays
Ferragosto means August vacation or holidays. It coincides with the Assumption of Mary (a major Roman Catholic feast day). But it is the month-long August vacation that best expresses the true Ferragosto holiday.
So what if you can’t get your ID card during August, or half the shops are closed? Yes, it happens here in August. But why stress abou it? Just find a local festival (most towns have them during the summer) and “eat, drink, and be merry!” After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day; there’s plenty of time.
The Augustinian holidays
But in Roman times, Ferragosto meant the Augustan Holidays because Emperor Augustus instituted them in 18 BC to promote his political reign. Among other things, he provided, free food and wine in various places.
Ferragosto was actually an extension of two existing Roman holidays. The Vinalia, similar to Italy’s Roman Octobers, which celebrates the wine harvest. And the Consualia, which celebrated the Roman god of the same name.
Horse races
Ferragosto celebrations also consisted of horse races throughout the kingdom. Along with a day of no work for all beasts of burden, such as donkeys, oxen, and mules. Racing traditions that Italy still holds on to. Like the famous Palio of Siena, a medieval festival well known for its horse race through the city.
In Fascist times
But today’s way of celebrating with a trip or excursion, dates back only to the Fascist period. The Fascist regime organized hundreds of Ferragosto trips in the late 1920s.
The special People’s Trains, offered citizens special discounted prices for 1-3 day trips. This allowed all families, regardless of income, to travel around Italy. These trips to museums, cities and mountain resorts were popular.
An enduring love affair!
Italians seem to have a long-standing love affair with holidays and vacations! Or when it comes right down to it, with days off or entertainment of any kind! And the Colosseum is standing proof of that. A sad reminder of man’s fascination with blood, gore, and violence.
But not all Roman entertainment was violent. Many, appalled by the violence, chose to attend the theater or poetry readings instead.
In keeping with this tradition, did you know that all public museums in Italy are free on Ferragosto? Of course, that usually means you’ll have to deal with bigger crowds. Which may be why most Italians stick to picnics, the beach or the mountains during the holiday.
It really is a shame that no one offers such special low-cost trips, like those of the 1920s. We would sign up in a heartbeat! I’m sure most Italians would too! And what about you? Where would you go if they still offered free or cheap Ferragosto trips?
Resources: Ferragosto, The History Learning Site, TheLocal.it
Photos are mine.
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