Kilts and umbrellas were in evidence this weekend as the centuries old bells of Barga rang out over the city to celebrate the wedding of Vivienne and John.
The overcast sky which threatened rain all afternoon actually did not produce the predicted rain but instead the umbrella was used by the newly wed couple to ward off the showers of rice thrown at them as they exited the Duomo.
Since early Roman times some grain – usually wheat – has been associated with the wedding ceremony.
The basis for the predominant theory as to why rice and other grains, such as wheat, have played a prominent role in marriage ceremonies for centuries, is that they are fraught with symbolism of fertility and of prosperity. By throwing rice at the bride and groom at a wedding, guests symbolically wish them a lifetime full of these blessings.
Congratulations to Vivienne and John from all the staff of barganews.
