Rooted in the traditions of stregheria (Italian-American witchcraft) and benedicaria (Catholicism based magic) this workshop introduces participants to the relationship between ancestral remembrance, folk herbalism, protection magic, and devotional practices. We will explore how these traditions have survived through the Italian diaspora, often woven into ordinary acts of tending the home, working with plants, honoring the dead, and seeking protection and guidance.

Rather than approaching folk magic as a collection of spells, we will explore it as a living, place-based practice shaped by family, community, history, and our relationships with the natural world.

What We'll Explore

Italian Folk Magic & the Diaspora

We will begin with the historical and cultural foundations of Italian folk magic, exploring how regional traditions, Catholic devotional practices, and older folk beliefs have influenced the practices carried through generations of Italian families.

Ancestral Remembrance & the Home as an Altar

We will explore the role of ancestral veneration in Italian folk traditions, including offerings, remembrance, and the practice of tending the home as a sacred space. Participants will learn how to create a personal ancestral altar using meaningful objects, plants, photographs, candles, and devotional items.

Plants as Ancestors & Folk Herbalism

Plants have long served as medicine, protection, and spiritual companions in Southern Italian folk traditions. We will explore the medicinal, cultural, and symbolic relationships associated with plants such as rosemary, rose, basil, olive, rue, and bay laurel, alongside traditional preparations and ways to incorporate these plants into everyday life.

Protection Magic & the Malocchio

Protection is central to many Italian folk practices. We will discuss the history and symbolism of the malocchio (evil eye), protective talismans such as the cornicello and cimaruta, and the use of salt, herbs, prayers, and protective charms. We will also introduce the brevi, a traditional protective pouch that may contain herbs, prayers, and other meaningful objects.

The Madonna, Saints & Devotional Practice

We will explore the relationship between folk magic and Catholic devotional traditions, including the Madonna, saint veneration, novena candles, prayers, feast days, and personal devotional practices. Participants will be introduced to Santa Lucia (St. Lucy), Saint Joseph, and Archangel Michael, and their roles within Italian folk traditions.

Experiential Activities

Alongside discussion and teaching, the workshop will include opportunities for reflection and hands-on participation.

• Opening ancestral reflection: We will begin by establishing a shared ceremonial space, reflecting on our intentions, and acknowledging the ancestors and traditions that have shaped us.

• Ancestral offering: Participants will be invited to write a blessing, prayer, or message to an ancestor, folding the paper and placing it alongside a rose petal on a communal altar.

• Exploring plant allies: Participants will learn about the traditional uses and symbolism of plants connected to Southern Italian folk practices and consider how to build relationships with plants growing in their own communities.

• Everyday ritual practices: We will discuss approachable ways to incorporate ancestral remembrance, home tending, and protection practices into daily life.