In recent years, Halloween has gained popularity in Italy, particularly among younger generations who enjoy dressing up, trick-or-treating, and attending themed parties. While the celebration may appear imported from Anglo-Saxon cultures, Italy has long had its own rich traditions related to the supernatural, spirits, and witchcraft, which blend with the Halloween spirit in intriguing ways.
A Growing Celebration
Historically, Italy did not celebrate Halloween in the same way as the United States or the UK. However, the custom of honoring the dead has deep roots in Italian culture, particularly around Ognissanti (All Saints’ Day) on November 1st and Giorno dei Morti (Day of the Dead) on November 2nd. These days are still considered sacred and are marked by visits to cemeteries to pay respects to deceased relatives, often leaving flowers and lighting candles.
In certain regions, children would leave empty plates on the table for the spirits of their ancestors who were believed to return for a symbolic meal. This practice, while not directly connected to Halloween, shares a similar theme of honoring the dead and the spiritual world.
Today, Halloween festivities in Italy are more commercialized, featuring carved pumpkins, spooky decorations, and costumes ranging from witches to movie characters. Major cities such as Rome, Milan, and Naples host parties, ghost tours, and themed events, blending the imported Halloween fun with Italian traditions.
The Witches of Benevento
One of Italy’s most famous tales of witchcraft is centered in the town of Benevento, in the Campania region. For centuries, Benevento was considered a hub for witches (streghe) who would gather beneath a large walnut tree for their infamous sabba (witches’ sabbath). The legends tell of these witches engaging in rituals, dancing with demons, and casting spells. This eerie history has contributed to Benevento being known as the “City of Witches” and even today, the town celebrates its dark folklore with events and festivals, particularly during the Halloween season.
The Haunted Castles of Emilia-Romagna
Italy’s fascination with the occult is not limited to witches. Several regions boast tales of haunted castles, with Emilia-Romagna being a notable example. The Castello di Montebello, located near Rimini, is said to be haunted by the ghost of Azzurrina, a young girl who disappeared mysteriously in the 14th century. According to the legend, Azzurrina had albinism, and her parents tried to dye her hair dark to avoid suspicion during a time when physical differences were often associated with witchcraft. On the summer solstice of 1375, she vanished while playing, and every five years on the anniversary of her disappearance, her ghost is said to return, accompanied by strange noises and sightings.
The Dark Side of Turin
Turin (Torino) is often referred to as Italy’s capital of the occult. According to esoteric traditions, Turin is one of the world’s points of mystical energy, forming a triangle with Lyon and Prague in the realm of black magic. The city is steeped in mysterious symbols, statues, and legends that contribute to its eerie reputation. Certain parts of the city, like Piazza Statuto, are linked to dark energy and ancient rites. For those intrigued by the mysteries of Turin, this fascinating story is explored in more detail in our article.
A Legacy of Magic and Mystery
While Halloween in Italy continues to evolve with modern customs, it fits naturally into a culture already rich with ghost stories, legends of witches, and an age-old respect for the spirits of the dead. From Benevento’s witches to the haunted castles and mysterious cities, Italy’s long-held fascination with the supernatural makes it a uniquely intriguing destination during the Halloween season.
Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Turin or attending a modern-day Halloween party in Milan, you’re never far from the deeper magic and mystery that has captivated Italians for centuries.
