The tale of La Befana (Italian Christmas tradition that celebrates the Epiphany) predates that of Saint Nicholas himself. Whereas St. Nick’s birth is said to have been on 270 A.D., the story of the “Christmas Witch” begins with Jesus Christ’s birth and the three Magi during their search for him. Of course, while there is alleged physical proof of St. Nicholas’ remains, supposedly, that of La Befana is still up for debate.
According to the legend, which does differ from story to story, the three wisemen stopped by the witch’s abode and asked for help in searching for the baby Jesus. She directed them to follow the bright star in the sky. Some stories state that they were already in the process of following the Star of Bethlehem, and asked the witch if she would like to come with them to meet the Christ child. She declined, as she needed to continue doing her housework, but said that she would catch up with them later.
Alas, she could not find them, and even took to the sky on her broom to look for them. During her search, it’s said that she brought with her treats and small gifts to give to the good children, and coal, garlic and onions for the naughty children, in honor of the three wisemen’s gift-giving to Jesus. She also used the chimney to enter the homes, or even keyholes, if need be.