I am not sure if I have mentioned the festival of Santa Rosa on this blog, but it seems to be a big deal here in Viterbo (the town only talks about Santa Rosa at the moment), so here it is.
By no means am I an expert, but thanks to Wikipedia, I know a little bit. Every year, on September 3rd (tomorrow!), a group of hundred men carry a 30-meter tower known as "the Macchina," which is rebuilt every year, and walk across the town for a mile or so. This annual procession, which is recognized in the UNESCO cultural heritage list, not only attracts Italians to visit Viterbo (aka watch out for pickpocketers) but also celebrates the life of Santa Rosa.
Santa Rosa, a Viterbo native, is partly known for her support of the papacy when the rest of the city tried to revolt against the pope in the early 13th century. But she is more famous for her supposed ability to foretell the future. To learn more about her life, check out:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rose_of_Viterbo.
Today, because it was September 2nd, we saw the procession with the reliquary that is supposed to contain the ashes(?) of Santa Rosa. It was quite an unique experience, partly because I was expecting a grandeur marching music. Contrary to my assumption, the trumpets were out of tune and the 4 church bells created a cacophony. Perhaps I was spoiled by the amazing Military Tattoo that I saw in Edinburgh, while I participated at the Fringe Festival. Nevertheless, I am really excited to see how the main event of the festival turns out tomorrow!
