St. John's Night

The tradition of the Kries in the Natisone Valleys: bonfires lit to celebrate the summer solstice.

Monday 23 June from 6pm to 11pm A travelling journey with the BusKries to attend the event of magic and profane rites known in the Valleys as the Kries of San Giovanni/Svet Ivan. "Noč svetega Ivana/ night of San Giovanni". Traditions that are lost in the mists of time and that have been handed down by grandmothers and great-grandmothers, who in turn repeated ancient gestures, often without knowing the deepest meaning, -simply because the night of San Giovanni is done like this- (Sara Terpin www.slovely.eu). With the advent of Christianity, the pagan celebration was dedicated to San Giovanni but has kept its meaning intact along with the practices linked to this particular time of year. It will be a journey to discover magical herbs, genuine hospitality and bonfires. Stefania will introduce us to the cuisine of her Agriturimo Pèstrofa, a hub towards Mount Matajur, Lisa with "her women" from Masseris will introduce us to the Matajur Museum and will give us "križanci". Program: 18.00 meeting and registration at the Valli del Natisone Tourist Office - SMO 19.00 arrival at the Pèstrofa farmhouse 20.45 transfer to Masseris for the meeting with Luisa and the Masseris bonfire and... 23.00 return to San Pietro al Natisone Guide: Antonio De Toni Gida Ambientale Escursionistica ASSOGUIDE and local history expert Appropriate clothing for the evening in the mountains Costs: €35 per person including guide, coach transfer, refreshments at the Pèstrofa Agriturismo, visit to the Matajur Museum and donation of "križanci". More information and reservations: Pro Loco Nediške Doline - Valli del Natisone APS +39 339 8403196 +39 349 3241168