PORT OF PORTLAND AUTHORITYFront: '15' - black texta, top right corner

In Bergamo and throughout the Po Valley, it is not Santa Claus, but the beloved figure of Santa Lucia who delivers the gifts. On the night of December 12, she arrives quietly in her donkey-drawn cart, fulfilling wishes and leaving toys and sweets. Santa Lucia, a young girl from Syracuse in Sicily born in the 3rd century A.D., became a martyr for her unwavering Christian faith. Today, she is venerated as the patron saint of the blind and ophthalmologists. In Bergamo, Italy, local children bring letters filled with good intentions and gift requests. The entire city embraces a festive spirit from early December in her honour,santa lucia, christmas, bergamo