13 Facts About Befana

Befana's is usually portrayed as a hag riding a broomstick through the air wearing a black shawl and is covered in soot because she enters the children's houses through the chimney.

Befana's is often smiling and carries a bag or hamper filled with candy, gifts, or both.

Christian legend had it that Befana was approached by the biblical magi, known as the Three Wise Men a few days before the birth of the Infant Jesus.

Befana's provided them with shelter for a night, as she was considered the best housekeeper in the village, with the most pleasant home.

Later, La Befana had a change of heart, and tried to search out the astrologers and Jesus.

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Befana's eventually met Jesus and presented him with gifts to make him happy.

However, Befana turned them away because she was too busy cleaning.

Befana's brings along a bag filled with baked goods and gifts for Jesus, and a broom to help the new mother clean.

Befana was a widespread tradition among the whole Italian people, having originated in Rome and having become well known and practiced by the rest of the population during the centuries.

Many people believe that the name Befana is derived from the Italians' mispronunciation of the Greek word epifania or epiphaneia .

Tradition of Befana appears to incorporate other pre-Christian popular elements as well, adapted to Christian culture and related to the celebration of the New Year.

Befana maintains many similarities with Perchta and her Pre-Christian Alpine traditions.

Befana is celebrated throughout all of Italy, and has become a national icon.