Giovanni Marino - Photojournalist

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  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • An ancient ritual of fertility still takes place every year in the Basilicata region. The so-called Maggio, the marriage of the king and queen of the forest, unfolds over a few days every Pentecost in the village of Accettura.<br />
The first act of the ritual, the cutting of the king, takes place about 20km from the village, where an enormous tree is cut down, the top is sawn off and the tree is transported back to the village by oxen. It is accompanied by the men of the village, who stop every few miles to drink, dance, feast and be merry. <br />
<br />
A few days later, the queen is fetched from equally far away and brought to the village, carried on the backs of the men this time, with ceremonial drinking and festivity. <br />
<br />
Once both trees have been brought to the village, the queen, also called the cima or top, is hoisted on top of the truncated king. This union represents the marriage of the two principles of male and female, which gives birth in turn to the new life that springs forth in spring. Until the 1960s, animals used to be hoisted into the top of the trees as sacrifices to the powers of the forest.<br />
<br />
How exactly the locals reconciled this pagan sacrifice with the cult of Saint Julian (to whom the celebration is dedicated) and with the celebration of Pentecost remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
Curiously, these days the super-tree is also used for target practice, while few villagers will admit to attributing any magical powers to the giant totem. The tradition is still practiced, however, as it attracts scholars and tourists, giving the tiny area a place on the map of Italy.
    Maggio di San Giuliano - Accettura 2...jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 1104.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0750.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0474.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0231.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0759.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0235.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 1085.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0546.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0163.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0541.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0453.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0377.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0248.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0918.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0061.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 1014.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0874.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0860.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0703.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0645.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0619.jpg
  • Accettura (MT) 27.05.2012 - Maggio di Accettura 2012. La domenica di Pentecoste ha inizio, nel bosco di Montepiano, la celebrazione della festa del Maggio che, tra le rappresentazioni dei "culti arborei" sopravvissute, costituisce l'esempio più fedele all'antica tradizione...Un cerro di grandi dimensioni denominato il "maggio", tagliato il giovedi dell'ascensione, privato dei rami e scortecciato, viene trascinato in paese da diverse coppie di buoi. Contemporaneamente nel bosco di Gallipoli la squadra dei "cimaioli" preleva la "cima", un agrifoglio che viene trasportato in paese a spalla...Il trasporto del "maggio" e della "cima" rappresenta un momento di grande teatralità e dura l'intera giornata, tra grida di incitamento, esibizioni di forza fisica, accompagnamento musicale e frequenti soste per mangiare qualche "boccone" e bere vino a garganella...Due giorni dopo, il martedi di Pentecoste, la "cima" viene innestata sul "maggio", a simboleggiare il matrimonio degli alberi, rito propiziatorio di fertilità e di buoni raccolti. A questo punto il "maggio" è pronto per essere innalzato in piazza; l'azione, diretta dagli anziani più esperti, è svolta a forza di braccia da diverse squadre di uomini con l'ausilio di grosse funi e argani e richiede, oltre che forza fisica, anche perizioa tecnica...A conclusione della festa, squadre di cacciatori gareggiano nel tiro al bersaglio per far cadere le targhette appese ai rami dell'agrifoglio che daranno diritto al ritiro dei premi in natura...Infine, i più abili ed agili si cimenteranno nella scalata del "maggio", conquistando in questo modo l'ammirazione di tutto il paese.
    Maggio di Accettura 2012 0509.jpg
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