When we think of Christmas figures, our minds often drift to Santa Claus, reindeer, or the Three Wise Men. Yet in Italy, a unique and fascinating character takes center stage during the holiday season: Befana, the Christmas witch.
As the Yuletide Season is fully upon us Elves everywhere have made appearances in homes around the world. Their purpose is to keep an eye on the children and to create some harmless mischief in the process. Elves have been part of the Christmas tradition for quite some time. Apparently, Santa could not do his job if not for his trusty little helpers. But cultures around the world have some form of elf folklore year-round.
