Epiphany

Epiphany, known as "Epifania" in Italian, is a significant Christian holiday celebrated in San Marino on January 6th. It commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men (Magi) to the baby Jesus, symbolizing the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles. In San Marino, the holiday is marked by religious observances, family gatherings, and festive traditions. A key feature of the celebration is the "Befana," a folklore figure similar to Santa Claus. According to tradition, the Befana is an old woman who delivers gifts to children on the night of January 5th. Children hang stockings or leave shoes out, hoping to receive sweets or small toys if they have been good, or coal (often made of sugar) if they have been naughty. In San Marino, the day is also a public holiday, allowing families to come together and enjoy special meals. Religious services are held in churches, and some communities may organize parades or cultural events to honor the occasion. Epiphany marks the end of the Christmas season, and it is a time of joy, reflection, and community spirit in this small, historic republic.