I The so-called “Giorni della Merla” are approaching, corresponding to the last days of January which, according to tradition, should be the coldest of the year.
However, the reality of global warming is disproving this popular legend, which has black birds as protagonists. They begin the January 29th and ends January 31st and they would be the coldest days of the year.
These are the days that, according to tradition, should be the coldest of the year and are often characterized by frost and snow. Popular tradition tells several legends about why these days are called “Days of the Blackbird”.
Some stories try to explain the origin of the gender difference in blackbirds, while others tell of originally white blackbirds that, due to the cold, turned black.
There is also one legend less known that tells of two little birds in love, Merlo and Merla, who set their wedding at the end of January. Merlo's death while trying to cross the frozen Po caused Merla's lament, which is said to be audible on the three coldest days of the year, the Giorni della Merla.
According to tradition, if it is hot, summer will come later
According to tradition, the three Days of the Blackbird determine what spring will be like: if they are cold, spring will be temperate and pleasant; if they are warm, the good season will take a long time to arrive.
Some weather forecasts indicate that the tradition could be respected, with that of the Northern Italy and some areas in the south where temperatures below zero are expected during the night and early morning.
Article published on 28 January 2024 - 09:04
