On January 6, the Epiphany day is celebrated in Italy and in the world. Thus, a special celebration is organized in Florence, the Cavalcata dei Magi “The Procession of the Three Kings”.
This is a historical manifestation and it has been celebrated since 1997. That was the year of celebration for the 700 years of the construction of the cathedral. The fresco that shows this ancient tradition is called “La Cavalcata dei Magi” by Benozzo Gozzoli and dates from 1459 which can be found in the Medici-Riccardi Palace in Florence.
Every year on January 6, this demonstration takes place. It begins in the Pitti Palace and then through the most important streets in the center of Florence until it reaches the Duomo square.
Once the demonstration arrives at the Duomo square, some rites are performed such as the delivery of the offerings of the Kings to baby Jesus in the living manger and the greeting to those present.
The Cavalcata dei Magi originated thanks to a tradition that already existed in the 15th century. At that time in Florence there was a company called “Santi Re Magi” and they had some religious characteristics because they represented the Procession of the Three Kings in the theater, at the beginning every three years and since 1447 every five years. The ride was composed of three processions that met in front of the Basilica of San Marco to pray and sing to baby Jesus.
Many of the Medici family were part of the “Santi Re Magi” company and little by little this tradition disappeared.
If you are in Florence during the first week of January, do not hesitate to contact us and we can organize a Florence private walking tour in which you will see many Florence Private Tours of the attractions of this fantastic city.
