Probably each of us at least once in his life heard about such events as torch processions.But to define this concept it turns out to be not so simple.What people want to demonstrate proudly walking in a column?Why do they carry the fire?And for what reason are going at this hour?
This article will tell not only what are the torch processions, but also introduces readers to the history of their origin and traditions of.
also in a separate part will give examples of such events taking place in our day.
Section 1. What is the torchlight processions?The general definition of
Actually, all of us familiar word "torch" is derived from the German.It is firmly stuck in our native Russian language, and therefore does not require further translation.
Each is what it looks like a kind of light that can illuminate the area for a long time in the open.
In turn, today parades with fire - an event that brings together a lot of people gathering in the column.A torch must be present in the hand of each participant of the holiday.As a rule, they all march together to honor the memory of a certain event.
Section 2. When there were torchlight processions?
first tradition associated with the so-called habit of wandering around the city, holding the fire originated in ancient Greece.Scaring off evil spirits from their vineyards and olive saplings, ancient Greeks went with lighted torches.
Later similar device was used as a projectile in sports.If the participant could run away with a torch, do not put out while the fire was burning brightly, it automatically becomes the winner.A more ancient - as the Romans and the Greeks - the torch lit in the house suite.While residents believed that this fire god Hymen sends the newly made groom.
In the Middle Ages in England, the word "torch" meant "a sense of boundless love", and the phrase «to carry a torch», which literally translates as "carry the torch" is still in spoken English is interpreted as "love" or "be crazy about someone. "
In France, when it is the first Sunday of Lent, the peasants make a similar detour among the fruit trees so that they, trees, supposedly frightened, gave more fruit.By the way, France gave the Statue of Liberty with torch in hand America.
Modern Europe is really rich in events of this kind.Although not all of them are positive.In Germany, for example, with a torchlight procession is most often associated hits the Nazis in the day when Adolf Hitler was appointed chancellor.
Section 3. Famous torchlight processions in the world
If we talk about these "walks", it is impossible not to mention Italy, in particular the city of Agnone (in the province of Isernia).Every year on Christmas Eve torchlight procession takes place here, the script is compiled well before the date of the event itself.The Italians have adopted this tradition of the inhabitants of ancient Rome, which on the eve of one of the major holidays of the country went to the temple and spends the night in prayer, repentance.At that time it was thought that the only way to ward off evil spirits and witches from the holy places.Now, of course, this is just a tribute to the medieval tradition.
way, not everyone knows that in Munich (Germany) is a marriage agency, which still offers newlyweds torch processions in their honor.This service is very popular, because in most cases around the world during the ceremonies of this kind are still using candles.
In addition, in Austria and in Germany held torchlight processions in honor of the retirement of various types of politicians.So the people has honored those who made a special contribution to the development of the Bundeswehr.
on the territory of the Russian Federation and other CIS countries, such activities are held infrequently.Is that a torchlight procession in Kerch punctually continues to delight both locals and the many visitors to the city.
Section 4. City of Kerch.General description
What do we know about this city?Actually, not so much.For example the fact that it is located in the most eastern part of Crimea, in the steppe zone.
This is the place where they live brave and courageous people who've no time to defend his small home in front of the enemy.The last time it happened during the Great Patriotic War, after which the locality is known, was awarded the title Hero City.
it too scarce this information?After all, you see, if you are already a torchlight procession held in Kerch, then you need to know about it as much as possible.Not many of these cities have.
So Kerch - a city located in the east of the Crimea.Among other things, he is also famous for its unique location.What's so unusual about that?The fact is that there are connected the two seas - the Black and Azov.
way, from Kerch to Russia only ten kilometers.However, on the sea.Yet it is much closer than to mainland Ukraine.
According to scientists, Kerch - is one of the most ancient cities not only in his country but also around the world.In 6-7 centuries BC Kerch was the capital of the Bosporus state and called Panticapaeum.
Everything is undergoing archaeological excavations, and to date has found was a lot of valuable artifacts.And this, of course, is not the limit.Most ancient objects kept in the Hermitage in St. Petersburg.
Torchlight procession ... Kerch spends his year.Why is that?Is this tradition, too, stretches from the time of ancient Rome?Indeed, given the advanced age of the city, even this fact can be assumed.
try to understand.
Section 5. The annual celebration of small town
Over the last few years, on the eve of Victory Day, May 8, in Kerch passes an unusual, but very solemn parade.
This tradition dates back to 1973, t. E. It is the date of assignment of the city honorable hero status.
evening, thousands of people wanting to take part in the torchlight procession, the streets come together to form a column.
But the march is not chaotic.First, line up all educational institutions, that is. E. Schools, colleges, technical schools, colleges and universities, and then they are joined by government agencies.At the end of the column are ordinary citizens, among which, as practice shows, many who want to take part in the ceremony.
Once twilight, people lit torches and march central streets of Kerch right on Mount Mithridates, where is the Obelisk of Glory.
For this action follows a huge number of people.Eyewitnesses claim that the audience is usually even more than the participants themselves.
overcome more than four steps, you can see a theatrical performance dedicated to the memory of all those who died in the Great Patriotic War.The event always ends with fireworks.
Section 6. Testimonials
What was a torchlight procession in Kerch in 2014?It turns out that it was able to organize no worse than last year!
Those who had a chance to personally become the participant of the event, say that this year in Kerch have guests from all over the Crimea, were also travelers from Russia and Ukraine.Foreigners are few, which, incidentally, is not surprising, t. To. This war of 1941-1945 was more than touched our states.
Despite the lack of funds, the city administration did manage to give everyone a real treat.
According to the activists, this tradition will continue to exist for many years, t. To. The need for it has been and, of course, will be.It is thanks to such holidays converge generation, and young people are brought up in an atmosphere of pride in their country and their city.
