An event with roots deep in history, the Explosion of the Cart has evolved into something very different from its obscure origins. On the morning of Easter Sunday the cart enters the cathedral square - the Piazza del Duomo - drawn by two white oxen and accompanied by costumed revellers and various city officials. A mechanical dove flies down a wire and ignites the cart, which is loaded with fireworks. A conflagration ensues, and a choreographed series of flashes and explosions. If all goes according to plan, the citizens of Florence will enjoy good harvests and a prosperous year. The holy fire is sparked from shards of the Holy Sepulchre in the Church of SS Apostoli. From here it is taken to the Duomo where, during the celebration of Easter Mass, the archbishop of the city employs it to torch the 'dove'.

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