The Bursting of the Chariot

On Easter Sunday in Florence we celebrate the spectacular event of the Bursting of the Chariot. A tradition that has lasted for about 350 years. It all begins around 10:00 a.m., when the priest rubs three Pazzino flint stones and lights the Easter candle, which in turn is used to light coals in a container on a decorated wagon - called the "Brindellone" - shaped like a tower, 2-3 stories high and pulled by two oxen adorned with garlands. The float is accompanied by a procession of flag-wavers and percussionists in historical costumes along a route from the Prato Square to the Cathedral Square between the Baptistery and the Cathedral. At the end of the procession, mass begins and at around 11:00 a.m. from the altar of the Cathedral, the archbishop lights a rocket in the shape of a dove - called the "Columbine" to symbolize the Holy Spirit - which flies out of the church along a line that reaches the Chariot placed in the square, generating spectacular pyrotechnics. According to tradition, if the ritual follows the stages in a regular manner, then a very rich harvest will be in store for the city and its citizens.