20 August 2026
Florence
Hail Mary of the Strain,
Blessed angel!
The Angel answered me
My handsome log, bring me many things!
That's what the prayer recited by children on Christmas Eve before the log prepared by their parents and laden with rich and gluttonous gifts said.
But let's take a step back: what is the strain? And why does it have such a unique and singular importance in Florence? Let's find out together in this new December article!
The story of the stump has very ancient origins: in fact, we are talking about a tradition that dates back to the 1700s! In those days it was customary to bless the base of a tree (the stump, or also ceppino, precisely) - from which the roots were removed - and then to light it in the fireplace and stand vigil with the family waiting for midnight mass on Christmas night. Not infrequently, the log was sprinkled with butter or wine as a good omen.
It was precisely in Florence that the tradition of the stump was later transformed-and with it its structure-to involve and attract children as well. It was changed from an oblong shape to something pyramidal (similar to our modern-day tree). The stump was then decorated and adorned with twigs, paper flowers, tassels and bangs. Several layers were created, which the smallest and luckiest could find filled with sweets and treats. But there was also room for sacred depictions such as those of the Nativity scene, often placed on the highest floor of the structure.
In the days leading up to Christmas, a real market for logs was held at the Porcellino Loggia.
That of the log was thus an occasion to make young and old happy, celebrating together with loved ones the arrival of Christmas. Today, in the frenzy of presents and colorful lights that decorate the city, not everyone takes the time to pass on this charming and welcoming memory, a small gem inscribed in the history of customs and the soul of Florence of yesteryear.
And instead, it is important to witness it and revive it, so as to appreciate the value of feast days even more. That of the stump was indeed a custom that could unite and bind people, building something unusual and precious, a symbol of intimacy, faith and hope toward the future.
If you visit our wonderful city during the weeks of Christmas, enjoy asking your guides or the locals you meet more about this ancient folk tradition-it will be a way to connect with the spirit of the place and the more indigenous identity culture.
And keep your eyes peeled: in some store or in the window of the most iconic downtown stores, you may happen to notice a wooden structure with gaudy and peculiar decorations such as toy soldiers or plaster figurines and a golden pine tree on the tip.
Know that that is indeed a stump, and at one time it would have turned the heads of all the children in town, eager to see it towering over the dining table in their homes in anticipation of Christmas.
