On Sunday, out for my long run, I decided to head out towards Compignano, to see the town in its normal Sunday best, after the wonderful experience of the Presepe Vivente (see my previous post on the presepe-vivente). On arriving at the town I did think that there were a lot of cars, but anyway..on into the town, and then, up towards the church, some small ponies, goats and sheep outside the church. All of the smaller pets were inside. I ran on, determined to look this up when I got back.
The festival of Sant’Antonio Abate (known in English as Anthony the Great or Anthony the Abbot) is in tribute to his role as the Patron Saint of (amongst a number of things ) domestic animals. He is traditionally represented with a piglet at his feet, holding the Tau stick of a hermit, a bell, a Bible and fire.
All over Italy, people bring their pets to the church to be blessed, which is rather charming. They gather in the main square with their animals, often also with bonfires, and after the Holy Mass, the animals receive the blessing.
I came across this programme of events in Massa Martana, which also included a walk - more suitable I guess for dog owners than those with cats or gerbils. Of course, this being Italy, there was a little refreshment beforehand and lunch afterwards.
And why not!
The festival of Sant’Antonio Abate (known in English as Anthony the Great or Anthony the Abbot) is in tribute to his role as the Patron Saint of (amongst a number of things ) domestic animals. He is traditionally represented with a piglet at his feet, holding the Tau stick of a hermit, a bell, a Bible and fire.
All over Italy, people bring their pets to the church to be blessed, which is rather charming. They gather in the main square with their animals, often also with bonfires, and after the Holy Mass, the animals receive the blessing.
I came across this programme of events in Massa Martana, which also included a walk - more suitable I guess for dog owners than those with cats or gerbils. Of course, this being Italy, there was a little refreshment beforehand and lunch afterwards.
And why not!
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