23rd June: Magic Night of San Giovanni, 2 - Magic Water
One of the oldest rituals connected to nature and the arrival of summer.
On the evening of 23rd June, people gather aromatic herbs and wildflowers such as roses, daisies, lavender, sage, rosemary, mallow, mint, elderflower, and above all St John's wort—the herb believed to protect homes and ward off negative energy.
The flowers and herbs are placed in a basin filled with water and left outdoors throughout the night—on a balcony or in the garden. According to tradition, the dew will do the rest.
On the morning of 24th June, this fragrant floral water can be used to wash your face and hands.
It is a symbolic gesture that, according to folk belief, brings good luck, health, and prosperity, while offering protection from negative influences.
Whether you see it as a blessing, a moment of mindfulness, or simply a beautiful tradition, this Water of Saint John invites us to welcome the new season with gratitude, hope, and a renewed sense of well-being.
IN ITALIAN
Uno dei riti più antichi legato alla natura e all’estate.
1. La sera del 23 giugno si raccolgono erbe aromatiche e fiori di campo come rose, margherite, lavanda, salvia, rosmarino, malva (mauve), menta, sambuco e soprattutto iperico (l’erba che protegge le case e allontana l’energia negativa); St John’s wort
2. si immergono in una bacinella piena d’acqua e si lasciano all’aperto per tutta la notte (sul balcone, in giardino). Secondo la tradizione sarà la rugiada a fare il resto.
3. La mattina del 24, quell’acqua profumata si può utilizzare per lavarsi il viso e le mani.
È un gesto simbolico, che secondo la credenza popolare porta fortuna, salute, prosperità e protegge dalle negatività.
