In this video you can see the Luminara di San Ranieri or the light festival in Pisa. In an ancient tradition, the people of Pisa celebrate their patron saint with a light festival on June 17th. About 70,000 candles in glass holders are lit and hung from buildings, bridges, churches and towers. The leaning tower of Pisa is lit by oil burners, which also decorate the walls of the town.

The Arno river is also the scene of barges carrying lights and in the town centre all lights are turned off so that only fairy lights and candles keep the darkness away. In the afternoon of June 17, a traditional regatta takes place on the river, involving the historic districts of the town who challenge each other.

The Luminara tradition dates back to March 25th 1688 when religious relics of Ranieri degli Scaccieri, patron of the city, were first placed in the cathedral in Pisa. It was a grand event for the city and an “illumination” tradition started that in the 19th century took the name of “luminara”. For more information, see Journey Man pictures on YouTube.

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