Ferragosto is an Italian holiday celebrated on August 15 and coincides with the major Catholic feast of the Assumption of Mary. For many Italians, it is their summer vacation period and a time when many places of business also close their doors for vacation.
The Feriae Augusti, from which Ferragosto takes its name, comes from the “Festivals or Holiday of the Emperor Augustus” which was introduced in 18 BC. The Feriae Augusti linked the various August festivals to provide a longer period of rest, called Augustali, which was felt necessary after the hard labour of the previous summer weeks.
Crowds flock to Cortona for this holiday, as they can enjoy live bands in the piazzas, various exhibits, and most of all, the Sagra della Bistecca held in the public gardens. This year numbers 57.
©Blogginginitaly.com
Large open grills, built for the occasion, become the center of attraction in the public gardens. Those tending to the grills are seasoned veterans, and know just when to turn the bistecca. Seared on the outside, very rare in the middle.
©Blogginginitaly.com
©Blogginginitaly.com
For 28 euro, you get a bistecca, potatoes, choice of beans or tomatoes, a peach, and some vino.
©Blogginginitaly.com
Family and friends come together at long canopied tables to celebrate the holiday and share stories and laughter.
©Blogginginitaly.com
Like every festival, there is music, even if just one man and his many accouterments.
©Blogginginitaly.com
After dinner, many walk through town to marvel at the ancient city’s beauty.
©Blogginginitaly.com
©Blogginginitaly.com
And if your family is like mine, and a peach doesn’t quite qualify as dessert, it’s time for gelato.
©Blogginginitaly.com
Even the weather contributed to the weekend’s success – bright blue skies, hot sun, and low humidity.
If you are thinking of Italy next summer, remember Cortona and Ferragosto.
©Blogginginitaly.com
And if rare bistecca isn’t your thing, coming next weekend: the porcini festival!
Ciao,
Judy
Blogging In Italy 