Legends, Mysteries, and Popular Traditions. Not just shows, but interactive participation, theatrical walks, and mysterious suggestions.
The Night of the Witches with the ancient legends of the “Janare,” the witches of Benevento, with a rich program of shows, music, street theater, historical reenactments, and cultural activities in the historic center of the city.
The Janare are more than just folklore: they embody the fight against repression, the allure of magic, and the cultural richness of the Sannio region.
Their history, intertwined with historical processes and pagan traditions, makes Benevento unique.
Main events include:
The “Witch Trials” and performances about the Inquisition that enliven the streets with open-air performances.
Theatrical tours led by a janara, with fascinating tales and stories that add mystery and authenticity.
Popular music and live concerts with tribal rhythms and beats that create an engaging atmosphere.
Book presentations and talks with experts on witch traditions.
The award ceremony of the “Janare Prize“, dedicated to personalities who have distinguished themselves in culture, medicine, entertainment or entrepreneurship.
Craft markets inspired by the world of witches, with magical objects, stones, and candles.
Street food activities and guided tours to discover local myths and legends.
The final propitiatory rite of the Janare, a symbol of rebirth and connection with the earth.
Exhibitions and Shows (including Vintage Vehicles in the context of “Witches at the Wheel”)
Access to the show’s streets is Free. Some side events or reserved seats to view the parade may require a fee.
The Origins of the Legend
Benevento has been known for centuries as the “city of witches” thanks to a legend rooted in the Middle Ages.
Everything revolves around the mythical “Walnut of Benevento,” an ancient walnut tree (probably existing between the 7th and 15th centuries) located along the Sabato River, near the Leproso Bridge.
According to tradition, witches (called Janare, from the Latin “Diana,” goddess of the hunt and the moon) gathered there at night for the “Sabbath”: a hellish ritual under the moonlight, where they danced, feasted, and invoked the devil.
They flew astride brooms or goats, anointed with a magical ointment made from herbs, vulture fat, and other esoteric ingredients, reciting formulas such as: “Ointment, ointment, send me to the walnut tree of Benevento over water and wind and all bad weather.”
The Walnut Tree was cut down in 1641 by the Dalmatian bishop, but its memory lives on in Piazza Castello (formerly Piazza del Noce) and the Leproso Bridge.
The Janare represent repressed feminine power, the connection with nature and healing herbs.
The Strega liqueur, produced in Benevento since 1860, is a direct homage to the legend: its recipe with 70 herbs recalls the potions of the Janare, and the bottle bears the image of the walnut tree.
The “Night of the Witches” is the modern and spectacular reenactment of these ancient beliefs.
This event takes place every year usually in September but may also be moved to July or August
Free Event
For information, dates, and event schedule, visit the website listed at the end of the article
The events listed may be subject to change or cancellation.
It is always advisable to check in advance to confirm the event and dates.
The Night of the Witches
Benevento
Campania – Italy
What to see in the city municipality rituals traditions unusual experiences curiosities events July August September free entry events folklore