Stay in a Tuscany villa and experience the Scoppio del Carro in the streets of Florence

The Scoppio del Carro, or the explosion of the cart as it aptly translates into, is a lively practice that takes part as a parade through the streets of Florence.

A beautifully decorated wagon built in 1622 and standing an amazing two to three stories high is walked through the city with white oxen decorated in garlands until it reaches the Baptistry and Cathedral.

Then, the truly magical part happens, when an impressive amount of fireworks that are shaped like a dove to symbolise the Holy Spirit are ignited from the altar of the Cathedral until they explode in the serene blue sky above.

The bigger the explosion, the better the harvest will be that season, and afterwards guests are invited to take part in the medieval parade that follows to celebrate the tradition and the future.

Interested tourists staying in a family villa in Tuscany and who want a bit of family fun should be ready around 10 am, an hour before the Scoppio del Carro ignites.

11 Aug 09

Shop for antiques in Florence

31 Jul 09

Enjoy summer festivities on a Tuscany villa holiday

31 Jul 09

Hit the beach in Florence

31 Jul 09

Have a roaring time on a Tuscany villa holiday

27 Jul 09

Hike in the Livorno hills on a Tuscany villa holiday

Other suggestions

© 2007 Adfero Ltd
Views and opinions in this article are solely of the author and do not necessarily represent those of James Villa Holidays(JVH). JVH provides no assurances regarding the accuracy of the information and cannot accept liability for complaints, loss or damage resulting from the article. It does not form part of the contract made when a holiday is booked with JVH and the information provided is not intended to be a rider or replacement to the booking conditions. Reference to the service or product of a third party, is not an endorsement or recommendation and JVH accepts no liability as a result of complaints, loss or damage arising from their use.