Ferragosto is an ancient Roman pagan holiday, which was later combined with the Christian holiday of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Ascension), which is celebrated in Italy on August 15.
Ferragosto is translated from Latin as “rest of Augustus.” This holiday in ancient Rome symbolized the end of the summer agricultural season and was established in honor of the ancient Roman emperor Augustus.
Mid-August is the peak holiday season in Italy. In Rome there are more tourists than local residents in the city center at this time.
In Ferragosto, Italians strive to relax by the sea or nature, go on picnics and… pour water on each other. Young people actively attend all kinds of concerts, and at night they light bonfires and set off fireworks.
Festive food on Ferragosto is the special “Margheritine di Stresa” cookies that Queen Margherita served to her guests during Ferragosto celebrations in the mid-19th century. Since then, these cookies have become very popular.
Also, on the holiday of August 15, Italian hotels, travel agencies and tour operators throw out a large number of “last minute offers” on which you can have a profitable holiday.
