A charming Tuscan village is bidding to become an international shrine to marital love.
Authorities in Lucignano, halfway between Siena and Arezzo, are basing their bid on a relic that is already venerated by Italian couples. The two-metre-high copper and silver 'Tree of Life', studded with gems and coral, was made by Sienese craftsmen between 1350 and 1471.
It is now housed in Lucignano's museum, where couples come to renew their bridal vows and pray to the Christ figure atop the tree. According to medieval legends, the relic has a special power to keep couples faithful because of the pelican talisman at Christ's feet.
A symbol of selfless devotion to the family, the bird is shown pecking its own breast to draw blood for its young. Lucignano plans to set up a Spouses' Day on the first Sunday in September when couples from all over the world will be invited to swear their undying love.
There will also be cultural and gastronomic events in May and June in the town's historic centre, churches and surrounding woods.
A concert on midsummer 'Love Day' in August will be beamed live to Japan, which has shown great interest in the event thanks to top Tokyo stylist Yumi Katsura, a frequent visitor to the Tuscan beauty spot. Lucignano will be the second Italian town to welcome couples keen to swear undying love. Each February they flock to Terni, the birthplace of St Valentine.
