Festivals in Central Italy http://www.discoversoriano.com Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:47:04 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.discoversoriano.com/images/M_images/joomla_rss.png http://www.discoversoriano.com Festivals in Central Italy http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=248&Itemid=44 Soriano - Tuscia In Jazz Festival When Yearly, Mid-July Where Soriano nel Cimino Distance from Soriano 0 mi / 0 km Description The famous Ronciglione Jazz Festival was renamed and moved to Soriano for 2007 and forward. It was renamed the Tuscia in Jazz Festival. Each year, beginning in mid July, the area hosts this massive jazz festival, attracting countless musicians and visitors from all over the world. A massive stage is erected in the town's main square, and every night during the festival there are free performances on this stage. After midnight, the performers move to a beautiful pub that occupies a network of catacombs under the square. There, they take part in jam sessions lasting through the night. This is a fantastic festival that has attracted many jazz greats through the years. Video(s) 2008 Jazz Festival Schedule July 19 Gege Telesforo Jazz All Stars July 21 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 22 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 23 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 24 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 25 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 26 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 27 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 28 Rosciglione and Munari present the Tuscia in Jazz Master 2008 Class July 29 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Finals July 30 Rick Margitza July 31 Flavio Boltro Francisco Mela Aug 1 Kenny Barron Trio Aug 2 Jazz All Night (White Night) An all-night festival scheduled to last until 5AM -- Stages are erected all over town for multiple simultaneus performances throughout the night. Town stores, bars and restaurants remain open all night. Aug 2 Tony Monaco, Ray Mantilla, Flavio Boltro Aug 3 Tuscia in Jazz Masters/Teachers Jam Aug 6 Fabrizio Bosso DEA Trio Aug 7 Shawnn Monriera Italian Quartet Aug 8 Tuscia in Jazz Band play Formichella Sound Aug 9 Sould New Sound Picture(s) Map Sat, 26 Apr 2008 08:13:02 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=216&Itemid=44 Orte - Music Festival (Rock) When Yearly, First week of July Where Orte Distance from Soriano 10 mi / 16km Description In the nearby town of Orte, each year they hold a fantastic rock festival with a nightly concert of local rock bands, as well as special guest bands from around Italy. In addition to the concerts, they have a week-long competition for the band of the year, plus other activities such as volleyball and local demonstrations. This is a great evening getaway, and the timing is such that it falls just before Soriano's huge Jazz festival. Picture(s) Videos Le Mani - This is a music video from onme of their more popular songs. They headlined the festival in 2007. Kinghouse performig Sweet Home Alabama at the Orte Music Festival. I'm not sure the singer really knows the lyrics ;-) Kinghouse performing Roadhouse Blues at the Orte Music Festival Map Wed, 28 Nov 2007 08:36:19 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=191&Itemid=44 Acquapendente - San Giuseppe (Saint Joseph) When Yearly, March 19 Where Acquapendente Distance from Soriano 37 mi / 60km Description In honor of St. Jeseph, Acquapendente holds this one-day festival centered around a specialty dish called Frittelle di San Giuseppe. It is a fried dough made with pine nuts, raisins, cinnamon, lemon, some Rum, topped by powdered sugar. Well worth the drive! Picture(s) Map Thu, 06 Sep 2007 16:43:02 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=190&Itemid=44 Castiglione in Teverina - S. Martino Funghi e Vino (Mushroom Wine Fair) When Yearly, November 10th - 12th Where Castiglione in Teverina Distance from Soriano 19 mi / 31km Description Centered around on San Martino day, Castiglione holds a three day festival based on local Porcini mushrooms and wine. As with other festivals, you will find a selection of food stands, an antique market, entertainment and more. Picture(s) Map Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:40:01 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=189&Itemid=44 Bomarzo - Vecchio Scarpone (The Old Shoe) When Yearly, November 4th Where Bomarzo Distance from Soriano 4 mi / 6km Description A night of song, poems, and film, where the people of the town get together to sing old war songs, listen to poetry of war, etc. A time of reflection. Picture(s) Map Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:20:39 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=188&Itemid=44 Bomarzo - Tuscia Deliziosa When Yearly, December Where Bomarzo Distance from Soriano 4 mi / 6km Description This yearly festival in mid-December honors local food products and music. Their 'Orsini Palace' opens to host local food tastings, wine tasting, concerts and art galleries. Picture(s) Map Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:11:02 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=187&Itemid=44 Throughout the region - Olive Harvest When Early December Where Throughout the region Distance from Soriano n/a Description This is the very tail end of the Olive Harvest. Soriano's area produces excellent DOP Extra Virgin Olivive Oil. Many towns in the area have harvest festivals during this period. You can visit just about any Olive mill for a tour, and often for an 'experience' of picking the olives and pressing the oil. There are many mills, especially in Canino, that have stores on site that will let you buy fresh olive oil. Picture(s) Map n/a Wed, 05 Sep 2007 14:16:32 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=186&Itemid=44 Throughout the region - Olive Harvest When All Month Where Throughout the region Distance from Soriano n/a Description Soriano's area produces excellent DOP Extra Virgin Olivive Oil. Many towns in the area have harvest festivals during this period. You can visit just about any Olive mill for a tour, and often for an 'experience' of picking the olives and pressing the oil. There are many mills, especially in Canino, that have stores on site that will let you buy fresh olive oil. Picture(s) Map n/a Wed, 05 Sep 2007 13:19:25 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=185&Itemid=44 Throughout the region - Olive Harvest When Mid / Late October Where Throughout the region Distance from Soriano n/a Description Soriano's area produces excellent DOP Extra Virgin Olivive Oil. Many towns in the area have harvest festivals during this period. You can visit just about any Olive mill for a tour, and often for an 'experience' of picking the olives and pressing the oil. There are many mills, especially in Canino, that have stores on site that will let you buy fresh olive oil. Picture(s) Map n/a Wed, 05 Sep 2007 13:17:55 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=184&Itemid=44 San Lorenzo Nuovo - Halloween When October 31 Where San Lorenzo Nuovo Distance from Soriano 31 mi / 50km Description While Halloween is most certainly NOT a popular (or observed) holiday in Italy, it has become more and more popular over recent years, probably attracted to the mystery of this odd hoiliday by its depiction in many films. For the most part, Italians that celebrate Halloween only celebrate the Trick or Treat tradition. However, this town takes it a step further. San Lorenzo Nuovo's town square puts on a Halloween party with food, drink, adults in costume, etc. They even have pumpkin carving contests for the kids. Picture(s) n/a Map Wed, 05 Sep 2007 13:09:00 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=183&Itemid=44 Bassano in Teverina - Sagra del Cappellaccio When Sept. 27 28 Where Bassano in Teverina Distance from Soriano 4 mi / 7km Description This festival promotes local products, above all the cappellaccio, a fried treat made from flour and water. To enrich the event, popular music, games, and other food dishes are among the festivities Picture(s) n/a Map Wed, 05 Sep 2007 00:28:54 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=182&Itemid=44 Orte - Ottava di Sant'Egidio When August 31 - September 9 Where Orte Distance from Soriano 10 mi / 16km Description This festival was officially recognized by Pope Bonifacio IX in 1396. It separates the twon into 7 different 'Contrade' (Districts) The town is subdivided into seven Contradas (districts) celebrate Saint Egidio for eight days per year, beginning August 31st. Each day, the festival is passed to one of the seven Contradas. The festival boasts music, theater, food stands, and taverns. On the first Sunday in September, all of the the Contradas meet in Piazza Santa Maria to compete against one another in the Palio challenge. On the second Sunday in September, they meet for a Palio of the Archers Through the festival, townspeople dress in period costumes, participate in parades and much more. Picture(s) Map Wed, 05 Sep 2007 00:08:31 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=181&Itemid=44 Tarquinia - Cattle Branding Festival When First Sunday of April Where Tarquinia Distance from Soriano 36 mi / 58km Description The Cattle Branding Festival including: Palio delle Contrade (bareback horserace through the city streets) Parade with Middle Age costumes Italian Rodeo Wine, Tavernsm and more Picture(s) n/a Map Tue, 04 Sep 2007 22:59:28 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=180&Itemid=44 Marta - The Barbarata When Yearly, March 14th Where Marta Distance from Soriano 23 mi / 38km Description An ancient festival featuring a procession of farmers and fishermen that represent the town's ancient guilds, as well as their products such as grain, vegetables and fish. With drum lines in front of them, they pass three times in front of the church door, each time drinking some wine while the priests offer them ciambelle (A local sweet bread) Picture(s) n/a Map Tue, 04 Sep 2007 21:32:05 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=179&Itemid=44 Terni - St. Valentine's Festival When Yearly, All of February (and, of course... the 14th ) Where Terni Distance from Soriano 20 mi / 32km Description What better place to spend Valentine's Day than the birthplace of St. Valentine himself? Terni, which is roughly 20 minutes from Soriano, was the birthplace of St. Valentine, who was their bishop in the 2nd century BC. Saint Valentine has since been named Terni's patron saint, as well. All of February is dedicated to festivities in his honor, and to lovers worldwide. They present shows, theater, stands, conferences and much more. The further have a chocolate festival within the festival! Every February 14th, a festival in honor of Saint Valentine takes place around the Basilica in which is remains are entombed. Picture(s) n/a Map Tue, 04 Sep 2007 20:48:20 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=178&Itemid=44 Ronciglione - Carnevale When Yearly, February. Check site for dates (http://www.carnevale-ronciglione.it/index_eng.htm) Where Ronciglione Distance from Soriano 14 mi / 23km Description The nearby town of Ronciglione hold the largest Carnival (Mardi Gras) celebration in the area. They hold a riderless horse race through town, a horse race with riders through town, a huge parade with floats, food stands, thousands of people in costume, and much more. Picture(s) Map Tue, 04 Sep 2007 17:04:00 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=177&Itemid=44 Acquapendente - Sagra della Fregnaccia When Yearly, Feb 12 to 28 Where Acquapendente Distance from Soriano 37 mi / 60km Description A Carnival (Mardi Gras) festival that features parades with floats, costumed villagers and more. It all centers around a traditional local dish called 'Fregnaccia', which is a pork, flour and egg based dish that can be topped with cinnamon and sugar or salt. Picture(s) n/a Map Tue, 04 Sep 2007 16:40:31 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=74&Itemid=44 Soriano nel Cimino - The Chestnut Festival ( Sagra delle Castagne ) When Yearly, First 2 weeks of October Where Soriano nel Cimino Distance from Soriano 0 mi / 0km Description Soriano's mega-festival. The chestnut festival ( known as Sagra delle Castagne in Soriano ) is a two-week long celebration that includes open-air restaurants, medieval parades, a jousting and archery tournament, a great deal of entertainment, free roasted chestnuts all over, and much more. It attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world, and is considered among the best town festivals in the whole of Italy. It is a truly one of a kind experience as the town completely decorates in medieval theme and an ongoing festive atmosphere for 2 full weeks. The festival revolves around three major events: 1) The Battle with Vignanello As the story goes, the Count of Vignanello coveted Soriano for its strategic position, and led a surprise attack in the middle of the night to take the town. An old lady that lived in the mountain above Soriano saw their approach and ran to warn the Sorianese of the attack. Soriano quickly mustered its forces and raced to meet the attack party below town. They encountered them at a small stream and slaughtered the attackers, successfully defending Soriano. They then took the Count to the castle and threw him off thetallest tower to his death. To this day, the stream where the battle occured is now named 'The stream of the good encounter'. However, the people of Vignanello have named the same stream 'The stream of the BAD encounter'. To this day, there is a great deal of rivalry between Soriano and Vignanello, all stemming from this battle. During the festival, there is a vivid recreation series of events that led to the battle and the killing of the Count, complete with the little old lady running down the hill, the swordsmen slaughtering the Vignallo force, and the throwing of the Count off the tower. 2) The Palio Soriano is divided into 4 districts. During the festival, each district is at virtual war with the other, leading up to a series of games that include jousting and archery. The winner of the tournament carries home the 'Palio' for their district until the following year in which they battle for it once again. 3) The Chestnut Harvest The namesake of the festival, since it happens just after the chestnut harvest. After you have been to this festival, you will have eaten enough roasted chestnuts to last you until next year. Video(s) The Palio of 2007 Soriano's Flag Throwers ( Sbandieratori ) The Taverns Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 09:08:50 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=73&Itemid=44 Viterbo - Saint Rose When Yearly, Sept 2 - 3 Where Viterbo Distance from Soriano 10 mi / 16km Description The provincial mega-festival. This is the yearly festival for the matron saint of the province capital: Viterbo. This festival is famous for the 'Macchina di Santa Rosa', a towering monument to Saint Rose that a group of people from Viterbo known as 'Facchini' carry through the city each year on their shoulders. This tradition is in keeping with a vow made by the people of Viterbo to the Patron Saint for having saved their life during a pestilence in 1657. What makes this so impressive is that the 'Macchina' is over 90 feet (28 meters) tall, and weighs 11,000 pounds (5,000kg). This weight is distributed over the Facchinis shoulders. Being one of the Facchini is a great honor for the Viterbese, reserved only for the strongest men in the city. Every five years, the City Council advertises a public competition to choose the new “Macchina” and a board judges the sent plans, proclaiming the winner. Besides the Macchina, this festival is quite exciting, full of parades, music, amusement rides, and so much more. It is without doubt one of Italy's great festivals. Pictures Videos Map Sat, 12 May 2007 09:03:57 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=72&Itemid=44 Vignanello - Wine Festival When Yearly, Mid-August Where Vignanello Distance from Soriano 6 mi / 10 km Description Vignanello is a wine town, and each year they produce a large-scale festival. This week-long festival features parades, wine tasting booths, open-air restaurants, open air markets, many shows, and there is usually a carnival. This is a very fun festival that brings in a large draw of guests. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:46:27 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=71&Itemid=44 Amelia - Palio dei Colombi When Yearly, First 2 weeks of August Where Amelia Distance from Soriano 18 mi / 30 km Description The Palio is a horse race. Five knights represent the five medieval districts of thsis beautiful town in Umbria. A full festival surrounds the race that includes musical tournaments, flag throwing shows, an open market, and much more. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:44:03 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=70&Itemid=44 Soriano - Tuscia In Jazz Festival When Yearly, Mid-July Where Soriano nel Cimino Distance from Soriano 0 mi / 0 km Description The famous Ronciglione Jazz Festival was renamed and moved to Soriano for 2007 and forward. It was renamed the Tuscia in Jazz Festival. Each year, beginning in mid July, the area hosts this massive jazz festival, attracting countless musicians and visitors from all over the world. A massive stage is erected in the town's main square, and every night during the festival there are free performances on this stage. After midnight, the performers move to a beautiful pub that occupies a network of catacombs under the square. There, they take part in jam sessions lasting through the night. This is a fantastic festival that has attracted many jazz greats through the years. Video(s) 2008 Jazz Festival Schedule July 19 Gege Telesforo Jazz All Stars July 21 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 22 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 23 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 24 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 25 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 26 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 27 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Contestant Performances July 28 Rosciglione and Munari present the Tuscia in Jazz Master 2008 Class July 29 Jimmy Woode Award 2008 - Finals July 30 Rick Margitza July 31 Flavio Boltro Francisco Mela Aug 1 Kenny Barron Trio Aug 2 Jazz All Night (White Night) An all-night festival scheduled to last until 5AM -- Stages are erected all over town for multiple simultaneus performances throughout the night. Town stores, bars and restaurants remain open all night. Aug 2 Tony Monaco, Ray Mantilla, Flavio Boltro Aug 3 Tuscia in Jazz Masters/Teachers Jam Aug 6 Fabrizio Bosso DEA Trio Aug 7 Shawnn Monriera Italian Quartet Aug 8 Tuscia in Jazz Band play Formichella Sound Aug 9 Sould New Sound Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:42:08 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=69&Itemid=44 Soriano Summer Festival When Yearly, Late June to Late August Where Soriano nel Cimino Distance from Soriano 0 mi / 0 km Description Each year Soriano builds a massive stage in the middle of Piazza, producing a regular schedule of shows and events. We have seen classical music, full symphonies, popular artists, plays, rock concerts, international acts, fashion shows, and even beauty pageants during Soriano's summer festival. The dates vary year to year. At times the festival does not start until late July, and at times it begins in June. However, we have yet to see it start later than the end of July. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:40:27 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=68&Itemid=44 Soriano Summer Festival When Yearly, Late June to Late August Where Soriano nel Cimino Distance from Soriano 0 mi / 0 km Description Each year Soriano builds a massive stage in the middle of Piazza, producing a regular schedule of shows and events. We have seen classical music, full symphonies, popular artists, plays, rock concerts, international acts, fashion shows, and even beauty pageants during Soriano's summer festival. The dates vary year to year. At times the festival does not start until late July, and at times it begins in June. However, we have yet to see it start later than the end of July. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:39:16 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=67&Itemid=44 Spoleto Festival When Yearly, First 2 weeks of July Where Spoleto Distance from Soriano 45 mi / 72 km Description The Spoleto Festival, also called Festival of the Two Worlds, annual summer arts festival held in Spoleto, Italy. Founded by the composer Gian-Carlo Menotti and the conductor Thomas Schippers, the festival has been held annually since 1958. It features the works of composers, singers and musicians, as well as writers, actors, painters, and sculptors from all over the world. In 1999, Francis Menotti, the founder's son, became its artistic director. The Spoleto Festival U.S.A., an American version of the festival also instituted by Menotti, has been held in Charleston, S.C., since 1977. Although Menotti broke with the American festival in 1993, it continues to be an active musical institution under its director, the French conductor Emmanuel Villaume, who assumed his post in 2000. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:36:29 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=66&Itemid=44 Caprarola - The Farnese Court When Yearly, Late June Where Caprarola Distance from Soriano 11 mi / 18km Description The Farnese Court - Created to remember the importance the town of Caprarola held for the Farnese family. The town converts the menieval quarter for this lovely parade of people in full authentic 16th century dress. Additionally, they hold a Palio tournament, and set up many food stands with local dishes and local wine. Finally, they hold a home-made italian pie contest. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:30:52 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=65&Itemid=44 Vignanello - Corpus Domini When Yearly, Last Sunday of June Where Vignanello Distance from Soriano 6 mi / 10 km Description In the middle of the night, townspeople paint the streets and Piazza with religios art. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:25:32 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=64&Itemid=44 Vignanello - Spring Festival When Yearly, 3rd Sunday of May Where Vignanello Distance from Soriano 6 mi / 10 km Description The town transforms part of itself into an island with games, huge balls, music and a 'Nutella Party' for everyone to welcome Spring. Picture(s) n/a Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:23:04 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=63&Itemid=44 Soriano - St. Eutizio When May Where Soriano Distance from Soriano 0 mi / 0km Description Soriano celebrates the patron saint of its suburb St. Eutizio. Among many other things, they are known to put on a massive fireworks display. Picture(s) n/a Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:21:09 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=62&Itemid=44 Bomarzo - Biscotti Festival When Yearly, Late April Where Bomarzo Distance from Soriano 4 mi / 6km Description Bomarzo is famous for Biscotti, and since 1973, the town has celebrated the cookie with its Biscotti festival. Events, shows, stands, a Palio... and lots of Biscotti Wine! Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:19:01 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=61&Itemid=44 Vignanello - Carnival When Yearly, Feb or March. (Fat Tuesday and the prior Sunday) Where Vignanello Distance from Soriano 6 mi / 10 km Description All towns in Italy celebrate Carnival (Mardi Gras) to some extent. The greatest of Carnivale celebrations, however, is in Venice. Vignanello celebrates with a wonderful parade of costumes. FYI: I don't know about the traditions in other places, but Soriano has a tradition in which during the night of Carnivale (Fat Tuesday), all of the restaurants hold huge dinner dance parties, and the residents of the town are not supposed to sleep at all that night. The tradition holds that if a group of people suspects that a friend has gone to sleep, they find the person (including breaking into their home) and open an umbrella over them, shouting out 'PRESSO' (Gotcha!). The person that chose to sleep is then carried out of their house (no matter what they are wearing ) and taken to the central caffee', where they must buy drinks for everyone. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:14:21 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=60&Itemid=44 Vignanello - Carnival When Yearly, Feb or March. (Fat Tuesday and the prior Sunday) Where Vignanello Distance from Soriano 6 mi / 10 km Description All towns in Italy celebrate Carnival (Mardi Gras) to some extent. The greatest of Carnivale celebrations, however, is in Venice. Vignanello celebrates with a wonderful parade of costumes. FYI: I don't know about the traditions in other places, but Soriano has a tradition in which during the night of Carnivale (Fat Tuesday), all of the restaurants hold huge dinner dance parties, and the residents of the town are not supposed to sleep at all that night. The tradition holds that if a group of people suspects that a friend has gone to sleep, they find the person (including breaking into their home) and open an umbrella over them, shouting out 'PRESSO' (Gotcha!). The person that chose to sleep is then carried out of their house (no matter what they are wearing ) and taken to the central caffee', where they must buy drinks for everyone. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 08:13:32 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=59&Itemid=44 Soriano (Chia Suburb) - Living Nativity When Yearly, Late December to Early January Where Chia (Soriano nel Cimino), Bassano Romano Distance from Soriano 4 mi / 5km Description Each year around Christmas time, the suburb of Chia, and the town of Bassano convert their medieval quarters into a recreation of Bethlehem, with living nativity scenes. These stunning displays are too beautiful to put into words. The photos below are of the Chia nativity, which is the better of the two in our opinion. They have converted a portion of the medieval quarter, as well as a complete hillside full of trails and grottos. Hundreds of the villagers take part in the presentation. They each play a unique role in full dress as you stroll by Roman guards, prisoners, sheepherders, blacksmiths and much more. You truly get the feeling that you have travelled 2 thousands years back in time. As you walk through the village, many of the volunteers have small food and wine stands set up, where you can sample pizza, sausage, cheeses, and local wines for free (they do have a donation jar). Finally, at the very end of the walk you come upon the living nativity. If you are in the area during this period, this is a must see experience. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 07:48:09 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=58&Itemid=44 Soriano (Chia Suburb) - Living Nativity When Yearly, Late December to Early January Where Chia (Soriano nel Cimino), Bassano Romano Distance from Soriano 4 mi / 5km Description Each year around Christmas time, the suburb of Chia, and the town of Bassano convert their medieval quarters into a recreation of Bethlehem, with living nativity scenes. These stunning displays are too beautiful to put into words. The photos below are of the Chia nativity, which is the better of the two in our opinion. They have converted a portion of the medieval quarter, as well as a complete hillside full of trails and grottos. Hundreds of the villagers take part in the presentation. They each play a unique role in full dress as you stroll by Roman guards, prisoners, sheepherders, blacksmiths and much more. You truly get the feeling that you have travelled 2 thousands years back in time. As you walk through the village, many of the volunteers have small food and wine stands set up, where you can sample pizza, sausage, cheeses, and local wines for free (they do have a donation jar). Finally, at the very end of the walk you come upon the living nativity. If you are in the area during this period, this is a must see experience. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 07:47:06 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=57&Itemid=44 Vetralla Living Nativity When Yearly, Late December to Early January Where Vetralla Distance from Soriano 15 mi / 25km Description Each year around Christmas time, the town of Vetralla converts their medieval quarter into a recreation of 19th centurl life in the town. While many towns do a throwback to the time of Jesus, this one is truly unique and awe-inspiring. Hundreds of the villagers take part in the event. They each play a unique role in full dress as you stroll by a tax collector that will convert your money into ancient coin, a 19th century schoolhouse, a soap maker, a bakery serving bread as they make it, blacksmiths and much more. You truly get the feeling that you have travelled back to 1800's Italy. As you walk through the village, many of the volunteers have small food and wine stands set up, where you can sample pizza, sausage, cheeses, and local wines for free. One is making fresh Ricotta cheese on the spot... You have to taste it to believe it! Finally, at the very end of the walk you come upon the living manger. If you are in the area during this period, this is a must see experience. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 07:42:12 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=56&Itemid=44 Soriano and Bagnaia - Saint Anthony When Yearly, January 17th Where Soriano and Bagnaia Distance from Soriano Soriano: 0mi / 0km, Bagnaia 7 mi / 12km Description On January 17th, many towns celebrate Saint Anthony. On this day, farmers bring their animals into the churches for blessings, which is an event to watch in and of itself. However, each of these towns also lights a massive bonfire in their main piazza on that evening. The largest we have seen is the one in Bagnaia, about 8 miles from Soriano. However, the one in Soriano is extremely impressive, too. In 2006, we were in Soriano for this festival. Late into the night, a large group started bringing sausages, pancetta and steaks into Piazza and started a massive Italian BBQ at the base of the bonfire. Anyone that showed up was welcome to the party. It lasted until 2:00 in the morning. It was freezing cold outside as we all kept comfortably warm next to the fire. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 07:41:02 +0100 http://www.discoversoriano.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=55&Itemid=44 Vetralla Living Nativity When Yearly, Late December to Early January Where Vetralla Distance from Soriano 15 mi / 25km Description Each year around Christmas time, the town of Vetralla converts their medieval quarter into a recreation of 19th centurl life in the town. While many towns do a throwback to the time of Jesus, this one is truly unique and awe-inspiring. Hundreds of the villagers take part in the event. They each play a unique role in full dress as you stroll by a tax collector that will convert your money into ancient coin, a 19th century schoolhouse, a soap maker, a bakery serving bread as they make it, blacksmiths and much more. You truly get the feeling that you have travelled back to 1800's Italy. As you walk through the village, many of the volunteers have small food and wine stands set up, where you can sample pizza, sausage, cheeses, and local wines for free. One is making fresh Ricotta cheese on the spot... You have to taste it to believe it! Finally, at the very end of the walk you come upon the living manger. If you are in the area during this period, this is a must see experience. Picture(s) Map Sat, 12 May 2007 07:06:54 +0100