If you are in Turin, my city, on June 23, you will see a huge amount of wood in the middle of Piazza Castello, the castle square. It is for the traditional fire called Farò.
A bit of history
We dedicate the Farò in Turin to Saint John the Baptiste, patron of the city. The celebrations of the city’s protector last two days. On June 23 and 24, the city celebrates with concerts, fireworks, and a parade with historical dresses.
The night of the 23, we lit a huge bonfire, falò in Italian, which in the Piedmontese dialect becomes Farò.
On the top of the big pyre of wood, there is a template with the shape of a bull. It is the emblem of the city. Every year, we lit the Bonfire at 10pm.
The Farò in Turin adds a sprinkle of magic
According to tradition, if the bull falls in the direction of Porta Nuova Station, the months which follow will be lucky and prosperous. But, if the bull falls in the opposite direction, towards the Royal Palace, then unhappy days will follow.
Yesterday night, June 23, 2018, the bull fell in the right direction. Good for you Torino!
So, if you are planning to visit my city in June do not miss the opportunity to assist the ritual of the Farò in Turin.
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