Today, January 29th, marks the beginning of the Blackbird days, traditionally considered the three coldest days of the year, which will end on January 31st.
According to Italian folklore, these days are destined to bring the coldest temperatures, but meteorological reality often contradicts this popular belief.
The origin of the name "Giorni della Merla" is shrouded in mystery, with various legends woven around pagan spring cults. One of the most fascinating stories concerns the goddesses Demeter and Persephone.
It is said that the blackbird, messenger of Persephone, was sent to our world to warn Demeter, her mother, of the imminent return of spring, thus symbolizing the end of the cold seasons.
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However, the climate doesn't always follow these ancient beliefs. In Italy, the coldest temperatures tend to occur at the beginning of January rather than at the end. The Days of the Blackbird, which arrive about a month after the winter solstice, find an environment already a little brighter than the darker days of late December.
Folk tradition also attributes a predictive meaning to these days. If temperatures drop dramatically during the Giorni della Merla, it is believed that winter will soon end. Conversely, if the days are mild, winter could last longer than expected.
So, as we begin this symbolic period today, it remains to be seen whether the popular saying will be confirmed by the weather conditions or once again belied by the dynamics of climate.
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