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Benedictine and Franciscan Monks: Forgotten Inventors

   Usually, when we think of religious orders, these things come to mind: a cloister, an abbey, a library, prayer in solitude, detachment from the world… All this in the cradle of a period defined as "dark" by historiography up to Romanticism: the Middle Ages . In this period the monks - especially the Benedictines of the various orders - were the custodians of Judeo-Christian but also classical culture, since thanks to their patient and meticulous transcriptions as scribes we have received almost all of the Greek and Latin works which we study today. Today we are grateful to them first of all for this.   However, many do not know that many products - material and immaterial - that we consume and use every day, come from monks who, using their ingenuity nourished by a profound spirituality, invented them due to practical necessities.    Personally, I find it amazing!    Let's begin…   The heavy plow   Plows were a primary agri...
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Easter Traditions Around the World

 

Scandinavia 

In the Nordic countries, Easter is associated with the return of spring after the long winter and is typically considered a pagan holiday. In Finland, Kokko lights—bonfires that symbolically drive out witches and inhabitants of the woods—are lit, while in Sweden, children dress up as witches and engage in "trick or treat" activities. However, in Norway, the focus shifts to mystery novels, known as påskekrim. This tradition began with an announcement by Gyldendal Harald Grieg during Easter 1923, leading to Norway boasting the highest number of mystery writers. Additionally, in Iceland, chocolate eggs contain proverbs, and on Easter Monday, Icelanders relax at the spa.

Mexico 

Mexico, a deeply religious country, is steeped in religious traditions during Easter. On Holy Thursday, Mexicans traditionally visit seven churches, akin to the practice in Rome, to atone for their sins. Holy Saturday sees the staging of the Burning of Judas, where a cardboard figure is set aflame. Easter eggs, filled with confetti and decorated, are also exchanged and broken over friends' heads.

Spain 

Easter holds significant religious and cultural importance in Spain. Palms are hung from windows to ward off evil spirits, and elaborate processions led by brotherhoods, accompanied by bands and Nazarenes wearing capirotes (pointed hats), fill the streets. Representations of the Way of the Cross and the Passion are common throughout cities. Traditional dishes such as Potaje de garbanzos (chickpea stew with cod and spinach) and Buñelos de bacalao (cod balls) grace tables, with Mona—a dessert adorned with chocolate eggs—serving as a typical sweet treat.

Australia 

A notable aspect of Easter in Australia is its occurrence during autumn due to reversed seasons compared to Italy. The Bilby, a small marsupial with pointed ears, serves as a symbol of Easter. Purchasing a chocolate Bilby contributes to the protection of this species.

India 

Surprisingly, Easter is also celebrated in India, where approximately 2.5% of the population identifies as Christian. Customary practices include exchanging colored lanterns or the Holy Cross after religious services. In some cities, Easter festivities spill onto the streets with songs, dances, and games.

Today's Blogger

My name is Giulia Cinti, and I am a 15-year-old student living in Subiaco. I am currently enrolled in the third year of the liceo classico. Besides my passion for ancient languages, I also enjoy studying modern European languages. In the future, I aspire to pursue a career in law and specialize in international law. I have a deep appreciation for art and culture, often visiting exhibitions, museums, and other places of cultural interest in my free time. Besides all that, I love dedicating my time to volunteer work at the canteen of the Community of Sant'Egidio in Rome.



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Benedictine and Franciscan Monks: Forgotten Inventors

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