domingo, 23 de junio de 2013

Summer solstice celebration

Today in many parts of the world the summer solstice is celebrated. Coming from ancient  times honoring the figure of Saint John Baptist, it also has pagan features. Bonfires are usual on the night of the 23rd of June, giving thanks for the harvest and also to keep away the bad spirits, as well as a symbol to throw the old and let the new come in. In any sense , it is a special night , let's say sort of magical,  in which wishes and purifying rites take place, including fire and water as central elements of the celebration. It marks the beginning of a new season bringing light. 


                                                       Saint John Festival - Jules Breton


                                Saint John's Eve Bonfire Skagens Beach - Peder Severin Kroyer


                                                       Mid-summer's Eve - Edward Hughes

                   
                                                  Twilight Fantasies - Edward Hughes

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