SAN FERMO TORCHLIGHT PROCESSION
The highlight of the summer in Borno, the torchlight procession of San Fermo recalls the legend of three siblings: Fermo, Glisente and Cristina. The three decided to retreat each to a mountain in Vallecamonica, to dedicate themselves completely to prayer and hermitage. Fermo went to Borno, Christine to Lozio and Glisente across the River Oglio. A fire lit every night was a sign that the three were still alive.
Since time immemorial, the inhabitants of Borno – with a strong religious tradition – have lit large bonfires on the mountains on the eve of San Fermo (8th August) every year. Every year, since 1974, the CAI has organised a descent with torches from the summit of the San Fermo mountain to the parish churchyard. The event highlights the link between tradition and the beloved, enchanting mountains that surround the village.
This strong tradition means that the event is extremely popular (more than a thousand participants) both with tourists and Borno’s local residents. The long snake of torches that descends, at nightfall, is a spectacle within a spectacle: for those who admire it with amazement from the town square, for those who physically participate in the long descent in good company, amidst songs, tales of life and new friendships.
Because, as we all know, the mountains involve, excite and reveal the soul…
