Tuscans are generally considered a very down-to-earth, sceptic people but we're not immune from being fascinated with certain popular superstitions, especially when they should bring us some luck. In this week's episode we will present you with some of the most interesting rituals that, according to believers, are guaranteed to bring you good luck. Many were born around Tuscan universities so that students would have good grades in their finals. When facing a tough exam, even the most rational of students will be tempted to court Lady Luck. If in Pisa they resort to a famous lizard sculpture, in Leghorn they have some seriously complicated rituals involving a famous Catholic sanctuary nearby. If in Siena students stay well clear of a cursed archway, in Florence the best way to get some extra luck is to rub the nose of the famous Porcellino Fountain. I wouldn't bet on the effectiveness of these good luck charms but some people swear by them. What is your take? Are you a believer or a sceptic? Do you know any specific good luck charm or ritual from your neck of the woods? Let us know by joining the conversation on our social media accounts:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/larno.it
Twitter: @arno_it / @WhatsupTuscany

LINKS TO SOURCES (ITALIAN ONLY)
https://www.visittuscany.com/it/idee/la-toscana-portafortuna-le-tradizioni-e-i-riti-di-buon-augurio/
https://www.pisatoday.it/social/laurea-superstizioni-universitarie-toscana.html
https://www.toscanainside.com/it/aneddoti-e-curiosita/post/i-riti-propiziatori-dei-maturandi-toscani/
https://www.tuscanypeople.com/fontana-porcellino-firenze-fortuna/
https://www.teladoiofirenze.it/storie-firenze-2/la-fontana-del-porcellino-perche-porta-fortuna/

BACKGROUND MUSIC
Title: Pick You Up
Author: Wayne John Bradley
License: Creative Commons Attribution
Links: https://soundcloud.com/ayneohnradley/pick-you-up-slow-poprock-style-instrumental-creative-commons