While rooted in folklore and medieval demonology, the concept has evolved significantly through art, history, and modern culture: 1. Historical & Inquisitorial Roots
In the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the sabba was codified by inquisitors as a secret diabolical sect.
: Many historical texts describe the Sabbath as a "black mass"—a complete inversion of traditional Christian ceremonies. 2. "Il Sabba" in Art Il sabba
"Il sabba" (the ) is a term historically used to describe a legendary nocturnal gathering of witches and warlocks, typically depicted as an assembly to worship the Devil and perform magical rites.
: During the 15th century, the term was often used to demonize marginalized religious groups, such as the fraticelli or other "heretics," by accusing them of participating in these dark assemblies. While rooted in folklore and medieval demonology, the
The most iconic visual representation of this theme is series of paintings, particularly Il Sabba delle Streghe (The Witches' Sabbath), also known as El Aquelarre .
: Goya depicts the Devil as a large caprine figure (the Grande Caprone ) officiating over a circle of witches. The most iconic visual representation of this theme
: It was viewed by the Church as a ritual of total rejection of the Christian faith.