There are many Christmas-related beliefs handed down over the centuries in Piedmont too. Some examples?
Until not so long ago, at the market in Corso Racconigi in Turin, which represented the city's customs border, lambs brought by shepherds were dressed and Seiràs, a sweet ricotta, was consumed. After midnight mass, on the other hand, Vin Brulè, a full-bodied red wine warmed with spices and citrus peel, was popular.
Every family in Monferrato on Christmas Eve would go to church at midnight, leaving the window open so that if the Holy Family passed by, they could come in and rest, and then leave some presents as a gift for hospitality.
In the Biella region, on the other hand, the oil from the Christmas Mass lamps was kept, which could have been useful in case of calamity.
The oldest man in the family would light a candle at Christmas in the province of Cuneo. If the flame bent, the harvest would be plentiful. If not... another lean year!
And again, in the Vercelli area, cutting an apple gave predictions for the future.
