by EH
Every January, the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia lights up with a centuries-old tradition: the Epiphany bonfires. Known locally as foghere, pignarul, and panerili, these blazing pyres mark the end of the holiday season and the symbolic transition into a new year. The tradition is deeply embedded in the region’s cultural identity, drawing thousands of residents and visitors to celebrate its mystical and communal spirit.
The bonfires, often towering over small towns and villages, are more than just a visual spectacle. They are rooted in folklore and agrarian rituals, with some locals interpreting the direction of the smoke as an omen for the year ahead. The events are a rare combination of festivity and tradition, blending the old with the new in a way that showcases the region’s rich heritage.
However, as these fires blaze into the night sky, they also illuminate a modern concern: air quality. Scientists and environmental agencies have pointed out the impact of the bonfires on the region’s atmosphere, particularly when weather conditions trap particulates and pollutants close to the ground.
In response, local environmental authorities have suggested ways to balance tradition with sustainability. Recommendations include extinguishing fires promptly to prevent smoldering, responsibly disposing of ashes, and centralizing events to reduce the number of bonfires. In some cases, ashes from the fires are repurposed for agricultural use, reflecting an effort to connect the ritual with practical environmental stewardship.
Fabio Scoccimarro, the regional councilor for environmental protection, emphasized the need for balance: “Celebrating the Epiphany bonfires with greater awareness does not mean abandoning our traditions. It means embracing them in a way that respects our cultural roots while protecting the environment for future generations. A responsible approach to managing these fires is crucial to ensuring that the celebration can continue without compromising the quality of our air or the beauty of our region.”
For many, the solution is not to abandon the tradition but to adapt it. As Friuli Venezia Giulia prepares for another Epiphany celebration, the community is grappling with how to preserve its cultural roots while protecting its natural environment. It’s a question of how the ancient and modern can coexist—a challenge as timeless as the flames themselves.
Whether gathering around the fires for a sense of connection or pondering the plumes of smoke as a harbinger of the year ahead, the people of Friuli Venezia Giulia remain deeply committed to their heritage. As the fires burn on the Epiphany, they do so with a renewed sense of awareness, ensuring the tradition remains as bright as ever—for today and for generations to come.
