Every 15th August, on "Ferragosto" (Latin for feast day of
Augustus = Midsummernight), the whole of Italy is in a state of exception.
Around this date, Italy's cities are completely empty, except for tourists.
This day is often the hottest day in Italy and is also considered the turning
point of summer. The Catholic Church placed the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
on this day, 15 August, about 500 years later.
And
where does "Ferragosto" actually come from?
The first Roman Emperor
Augustus celebrated his victory over Marcus Antonius and Cleopatra and the
conquest of Egypt for three days from 13 to 15 August in 29 BC. To this end, he
had decreed that this day was a day off work not only for the free Romans but
also for the slaves.
What
does this mean for the Italians?
The 15th August is "Ferragosto",
so in Italy most people take holidays around this special date. In any case,
everyone who can somehow manage, takes time off and escapes from the cities to
the countryside, the mountains or the sea. It's not surprising that many seek
cooling off in the sea. Especially in big cities like Rome, temperatures can
rise to 40°C at the height of summer. The air literally stands still and with
it all public life.
And what
does this mean for tourism in Italy?
It is one of the most
important religious holidays, when literally no one works, except of course in
the hotels and restaurants in the excursion areas. August is peak season in
Italy and prices for accommodation reach their record high. Many Italian
families spend their summer holidays on the beaches in their own country, where
it gets particularly lively around the "Ferragosto" holiday. In Germany, school
holidays are spread over Easter, Christmas, and the summer. Italian
schoolchildren have less holidays during the year, so the summer holidays a
really long: from the end of June to the beginning of September, the “ragazzi“ are
free from school. Their parents usually take their entire annual holiday in
August, because many companies have companies are closed then.
What
makes "Ferragosto" so special?
Well... an important tradition
is the "Cena di Ferragosto", a big festive meal. Restaurants and
hotels serve opulent buffets with regional specialities or offer special menus.
Also, watermelons are a must for dessert: "Melons fill you up, quench your
thirst and you can wash your face with them," say Neapolitans.
In the cities, many shops are
closed, but instead there are cultural events, fireworks and a traditional
festive menu.
Cultural visits are also
becoming increasingly popular on "Ferragosto". While the authorities close on 15th
August, many public museums remain open.
Some even offer longer visiting hours or entice visitors with a night at the
museum.
What
else is important to know?
Early bookers have a clear
advantage! Hotels and campsites in Italy are booked up well in advance for July
and August. Therefore, it is advisable to book accommodation early for the high
season.
We wish you a relaxing
Ferragosto!
