The winter solstice it is an astronomical event that marks the day with the fewest hours of daylight in the Northern Hemisphere. In 2024, the winter solstice will occur exactly on December 21st at 10.21amofficially marking the start of astronomical winter.
The phenomenon is determined byinclination of the earth’s axiswhich measures approximately 23.4 degrees relative to the plane of Earth’s orbit. During the solstice, the North Pole is at its most tilted position away from the Sun, reducing the amount of daylight reaching the Northern Hemisphere. This leads to very short days and very long nights.
How long is the shortest day of the year in Italy?
In Italy, the shortest day of the year varies slightly based on latitude. In the North, for example in Milan, we will have around December 21st 8 hours and 42 minutes of lightwhile in the South, in Palermo, the duration will be slightly longer, almost reaching 9 hours. In both cases, the solstice represents the lowest point of the year in terms of daylight hours, before the days gradually begin to lengthen.
Do the days get longer after the winter solstice?
Immediately after the winter solstice, the days begin to get longer and the nights to get shorter. This process will continue until the summer solstice, which occurs in June and marks the longest day of the year. Around March, with the spring equinox, hours of light and darkness balance, each for about 12 hours.
What does “solstice” mean?
The word “solstice” comes from the Latin “solstitium”, which means “the Sun stops”, because the apparent movement of the Sun towards north or south stops before changing direction.
Does the solstice mark the start of winter?
So does the solstice mark the beginning of winter? Depends. Yes if we are talking about “astronomical winter”: in this case it is the first day of the winter season. However, if we are referring to “meteorological winter,” then the first day of winter is December 1st.
This is because meteorologists (scientists who study weather and climate patterns) divide the year evenly, with three months for each of the four seasons.
The winter solstice it is not only an astronomical phenomenon, but also a symbol of rebirth and hope in many cultures. For centuries, this date has been celebrated with rituals and holidays that welcome the return of light. Even in Italy, some popular traditions have roots linked to the solstice: for example, the fires lit in many regions of Central and Northern Italy symbolize the light that triumphs over darkness.
Even if there are no particular visible phenomena, the solstice is an opportunity to reflect on the cyclical nature of nature. You can celebrate it by spending time outdoors, perhaps watching the sky at sunset, or by attending events that highlight the importance of the return of light.
