Filming of the Shepard's Festival Begins!

Tomorrow at 5:00 am, the gang will awake to follow the Shepherds in Matera Italy. This is the same town where "The Passion" was filmed for its scenery.

The Shepherds walk 12 kilometers through the streets of Matera in Velvet Cloaks guarding the Madonna Fatima de Bruna. She rides on a handmade paper mache float carried by donkeys through the streets. Each year the float depicts a different story in the bible.

After the days events and festivities, the Madonna is placed in the Piazza as the townspeople devour the float taking all the paper mache items off. It is believed the items will bring good luck throughout the year. Then music and fireworks are enjoyed in the Madonna's honor.

When asked how Michael was enjoying Italy, as this is his first trip, he said, "It was like going home". Finally, he is seeing what his grandparents talked about all those years growing up!

They are enjoying their time looking out from their balcony/porch over the caves which are unique to Matera. The Residence San Giorgio is a lovely place to take it all in.



This morning they were planning on touring Saint Peter's in Vatican City, however, the Pope had other plans for them. It seems this morning the Pope was having a public blessing, so instead of being able to see Saint Peters, they were in the Pope's Audience.

More tomorrow from the gang as they take in a special trip to document the Shepard's of Italy.