Giovanni Marino - Photojournalist

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  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 567.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 474.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 330.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 266.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 249.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 226.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 143.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 118.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
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 085.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 591.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 589.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 587.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 558.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 552.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 544.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 542.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 537.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 533.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 532.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 530.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 527.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 523.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 521.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 519.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 511.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 498.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 494.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 488.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 487.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 484.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 479.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 477.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 472.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 461.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 445.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 437.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 433.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 417.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 395.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 387.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 383.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 373.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 334.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 329.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 328.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 312.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 310.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 308.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 295.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 275.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 272.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 265.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 261.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 246.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 231.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 223.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 210.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 204.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 183.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 180.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 169.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 163.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 153.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 145.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 142.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 138.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 130.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 116.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 090.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 072.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 070.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 058.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 050.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 027.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 033.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 043.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 019.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 012.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 002.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
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 586.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 581.jpg
  • Barile (PZ) 29.03.2013 - Via Crucis con personaggi viventi.
    Via Crucis Barile 2013 579.jpg
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