Giorni della merla
Days of the blackbird
This idiom refers to the last three days of January (29th, 30th, and 31st), traditionally considered the coldest days of the year in Italy. The name “giorni della merla” comes from various legends, with the most popular one involving a blackbird (merla) that was originally white. According to the legend, the blackbird turned black after seeking refuge in a chimney to stay warm during these freezing days.
Esempi
- Si dice che i giorni della merla siano i più freddi dell’anno. – It is said that the days of the blackbird are the coldest of the year.
- Durante i giorni della merla, è meglio restare al caldo in casa. – During the days of the blackbird, it’s better to stay warm indoors.
- Mia nonna raccontava sempre la leggenda dei giorni della merla. – My grandmother always told the legend of the days of the blackbird.