The Donàze
Masks and traditions of the eve of the Epiphany in Colle Santa Lucia
As darkness falls, among furs, wooden masks and cowbells, the Donàze make their appearance. In Colle Santa Lucia these figures of Ladin folklore animate the evening of January 5, the eve of the Epiphany, together with the Végia da Mont.
A tradition that brings the town together between mountain tales, propitiatory fires and the last Christmas celebrations.
Photo: Giulio Fratticioli
The figures of the mountain
According to local stories, the Donazes were evil women, half-human, half-animal in appearance, who lived in the mountains. On the evening of January 5, they went down to the village to punish children who had behaved badly.
Even today, the young people who impersonate them wear furs, chains and cowbells, hiding their faces behind frightening wooden masks. In the dark, they burst into the crowd gathered for the party, provoking and frightening those present.
Photo: Giulio Fratticioli
La Végia da Mont
Among the Donàze, the Végia da Mont stands out, recognizable by the wooden mask depicting an old woman, the worn-out clothes and the characteristic potato necklace, called sansoni.
Its appearance recalls the figure of the Befana and the imagery of the old women of the mountains. The “Twelve Children” also appear in the story of the tradition, representing the twelve months of the past year and accompanying the Donàze.
Photo: Giulio Fratticioli
The fire and the party
On the evening of the eve of the Epiphany, the community gathers around the bonfire of Pan e Vin, the propitiatory fire that accompanies the feast.
Visitors are offered the fortaie: fried sweets with a knotted shape, served with powdered sugar and cranberry jam. Between the warmth of the fire, the sound of cowbells and the arrival of masks, the end of the Christmas season is celebrated.
In the meaning handed down by tradition, the night gives way to the wildest instincts and disturbing presences. The day of the Epiphany brings with it purification and the return of light.
Photo: Giulio Fratticioli
