Out of Basilica of Santo Spirito, in Florence, there are hundreds of people. I’m here for the blessing of the White flag as a good omen for the next tournament historical soccer. And for the procession dedicated to Santa Rita.
And the first year that the Oltrarno players participate in the traditional procession on May 22ndwalking through the streets of the neighborhood together with Florentines and fans.
«I come every year to the blessing but I didn’t have it never seen so many people. The Basilica is really packed”, says one of the ladies in the front row, ready to immortalize the moment with some photos and videos.
The historic football musicians begin the ceremony. Drum roll, the flag with the white dove stretched towards the sky and the players making space among the crowd.
«Every day the citizens of this neighborhood come here to pray to Santa Rita. Today, since we are all together, we can also ask her to win this tournament”, he jokes father Giuseppe addressing the whites, sitting among the first benches.
The procession
A new tradition is added to the history of Santo Spirito team.
This year for the first time the players carried the statue of Santa Rita on their shoulders. Behind, in procession, an entire neighborhood.
“This choice comes from the bond we have with the neighborhood and with Father Giuseppethis is why we decided to combine our blessing with the procession for Santa Rita – he explains the team president Marino Vieri – From this year onwards the Whites will always be present. It is an opportunity to see our neighborhood united, a day dedicated to the Oltrarno team and its citizens”
Many also looked out from the balconies and windows as they passed by. There was no shortage of amazed looks from the tourists either.
