Italians celebrate the feast of St. Lucy with light and cheer. You are invited

Do you know about Divina Pastora procession? Or St. Lucia’s Day? Or Virgin of Los Rondeles? No? Come with us to the southern Spanish village of Casarabonela and see for yourself. (Reuters)

Updated on: Dec 16, 2016 3:42 PM IST

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Do you know about Divina Pastora procession? Or St. Lucia’s Day? Or Virgin of Los Rondeles? No? Come with us to the southern Spanish village of Casarabonela and see for yourself. (Reuters)

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Updated on Dec 16, 2016 3:42 PM

Saint Lucia’s Day, also known as the Feast of Saint Lucy in some regions, is celebrated mostly in Scandinavian countries on December 13. (Reuters)

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It commemorates Saint Lucy, who is considered the patron saint of vision. She was martyred in 304 for her faith. (Reuters)

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Villagers carry a statue of the Virgin of Los Rondeles and hold torches during the Divina Pastora procession, to represent light and vision on the eve of St. Lucia's Day. (AFP)

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Participants use a bonfire to light their ‘rondeles’ (rolled wicker mats, soaked in oil) during the procession. (AFP)

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Men drink anisette and hold burning rondeles during the procession to mark the feast of Saint Lucia. (AFP)

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Several stories revolve around the conception of the feast. Some say the tradition comes from an old procession performed by olive oil millers. (AFP)

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The millers, it is said, would carry their wicker baskets in flames, as an act of thanksgiving to the Holy Shepherdess (Virgin Mary) for the harvest obtained. It marks the start of the Christmas celebration. (Reuters)

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Villagers hold torches during the Divina Pastora procession, as part of a festival to honour the Virgin of Los Rondeles, in the southern Spanish village of Casarabonela. (Reuters)

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There are several accounts on why torches are used to mark the feast. According to a legend, Saint Lucy used a candle-lit wreath to light her way while keeping her hands free when bringing food for the needy. (Reuters)

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Another story is that the feast once coincided with the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, and so the day become to be known as a festival of light. (Reuters)