Devotion to Saint Lucia: how and where it is celebrated!

The story of the devotion of the followers of Saint Lucia began immediately after her death. The first physical evidence we have of the cult of Lucia is a marble inscription dating back to the XNUMXth century, which was found in the catacombs of Syracuse where Lucia was buried. Shortly thereafter, Pope Honorius I appointed them a church in Rome. Soon his cult spread from Syracuse to other parts of Italy and other parts of the world - from Europe to Latin America, to some places in North America and Africa. All over the world today there are relics of Saint Lucia and works of art inspired by her.

In Syracuse in Sicily, Lucia's hometown, the party in her honor is naturally very heartfelt and the celebrations last two weeks. A silver statue of Lucia, kept in the cathedral all year round, is brought out and paraded in the main square where there is always a large crowd waiting in expectation. The night of Santa Lucia is also celebrated in other cities in Northern Italy, especially by children. According to tradition, Lucia arrives on the back of a donkey, followed by the coachman Castaldo, and brings sweets and gifts for the children who have behaved well throughout the year. 

In turn, the children prepare cups of coffee for her with biscuits. St. Lucia's day is also celebrated in Scandinavia, where it is considered a symbol of light. It is said that celebrating Saint Lucia's day vividly will help experience Scandinavia's long winter nights with enough light. In Sweden it is particularly celebrated, marking the arrival of the holiday season. Here, the girls dress up as "Lucia". 

They wear a white robe (symbol of his purity) with a red sash (representing the blood of his martyrdom). The girls also wear a crown of candles on their heads and carry biscuits and "Lucia focaccia" (sandwiches filled with saffron - made especially for the occasion). Both Protestants and Catholics participate in these ceremonies. Candlelight-like processions and celebrations take place in Norway and parts of Finland.