by InTrieste
Deep in the heart of one of the world’s largest caves, an age-old Italian tradition comes to life each year on the Feast of the Epiphany. The Grotta Gigante (Giant Cave), nestled in the rolling hills of Sgonico, Trieste, will once again host its beloved Befana celebration—a holiday spectacle that draws hundreds of spectators from near and far.
The event, which has become a staple of Trieste’s winter celebrations, is set to begin at 3:00 PM on January 6, 2025, with an exhilarating show that combines music, folklore, and plenty of festive cheer. The Grotta Gigante, owned by the Società Alpina delle Giulie APS – Sezione di Trieste del Club Alpino Italiano, will transform into a stage for an unforgettable afternoon.
The highlight of the day is a dramatic descent of speleologists, members of the Commissione Grotte Eugenio Boegan of the Società Alpina delle Giulie, dressed in colorful costumes. These daring adventurers will rappel from the cave’s ceiling, making their way down to the audience gathered 100 meters below at the base of the Great Cave. It’s a breathtaking sight, blending the thrill of spelunking with the magic of the season.
Opening the show will be the musical notes of the “Le solite legere” band, followed by the arrival of two special guests: Venetian speleologists and musicians Annamaria “Flauta” della Valle and Paolo Corsini, who will descend while playing the flute and melodica, adding a touch of melody to the already captivating atmosphere.
The grand finale, however, is reserved for the star of the show: the Befana. In Italian folklore, the Befana is an old woman who delivers gifts to children on Epiphany Eve, much like Santa Claus. This year, she will be joined by her merry band of companions— the Three Kings, Santa Claus, the Star of Bethlehem, and the mythical Muccocervi, the fantastical creatures of the cave. Together, they will descend into the cave, delighting children with candy and sweets as they spread festive joy.
Meanwhile, a group of enterprising Vikings will serve up a warm, secret-recipe alcoholic drink known as “Gran Pampel,” a traditional warming beverage enjoyed by speleologists after their underground expeditions. It’s a treat for the adults, ensuring everyone’s spirits are lifted on this magical afternoon.
Given the popularity of the event, tickets for the Befana celebration are limited to 900, and visitors are encouraged to secure their spots in advance by purchasing tickets online. Tickets can be purchased through the Grotta Gigante website at www.grottagigante.it.
For those unable to buy tickets in advance, a limited number of “at the door” tickets will be available, though they come at a higher price and are subject to availability.
Ticket Prices:
- Adults online: €15
- Adults at the door: €18 (if available)
- Children (up to 12 years old): Free
For those planning to visit earlier in the day, the usual guided tours of Grotta Gigante will be available until 12:00 PM, after which the cave will be preparing for the afternoon festivities. Regular tours will resume on Sunday, January 7.
