Every January 17, Saint Anthony's Day, the patron saint of animals, is celebrated in many cities across Spain. It is the day when thousands of people go to churches with their pets to receive a blessing.
But have you ever wondered why this saint was chosen as the patron of pets? What is the origin of this tradition?
According to biblical writings, Saint Anthony the Abbot, in the midst of an austere life, discovered wisdom and divine love through nature, blessing animals. The story goes that one day he approached a sow with her piglets, which were suffering from blindness. Therefore, Saint Anthony the Abbot cured them, and from then on, the sow never left his side. For this reason, the saint is depicted with a wild boar at his feet. After his death, livestock farmers adopted him as the protector and patron of domestic animals.
How is it celebrated?
Saint Anthony's Day is celebrated in many cities in Spain, especially in Madrid.
Every January 17, Madrid becomes pet day. From early morning, as is tradition, dozens of animals with their owners were queuing at the doors of the Church of San Antón to receive the blessing of the saint.
Father Ángel, priest of the Church of San Antón, spoke to the media, including ARISTOPET, saying that it is a "day of festivities and blessings, where we bless and also ask to be blessed ourselves and our animals."
Many neighbors, along with their ARISTOPET, whether cat or dog, came to the Church to celebrate this day. For many, it has become "a tradition," and year after year they queue to receive the blessing. Some ARISTOPARENTS have asked for health, love, and many good experiences with their pets.
The Madrid City Council has organized a series of activities throughout the week to celebrate the patron saint of pets, which will end on Sunday. You can find the program of activities here.
ARISTOPET organized an event with La Cocina de San Antón and the Amores Peludos Association at the San Antón Market. On the terrace of La Cocina de San Antón, a space with a photo booth was set up for ARISTOPETERS to take photos with their pets while enjoying hot broth. In addition, they received gifts from Trixie.
Members of the Amores Peludos Association were also present with four ARISTODOGS, with the aim of introducing them to people to find them homes. Just as we found a home for Luigi, we would love to find a home for all the dogs in the association. We met Rumba, she is 10 months old and has just been rescued by the association. She is a very sweet and sociable Greyhound, who made an impression on the terrace. She approached everyone and everyone wanted to meet her. We are looking for the home she deserves. Can you help us find her a home?
Celebrations in different cities in Spain
Jaén
In Jaén, "The Night of San Antón" is celebrated with bonfires, and also with a popular race. For a couple of years, the race day has been moved to the Saturday closest to January 17, instead of being held on the saint's day. This year it will be this Saturday, January 19. Athletes run through the streets of Jaén, while spectators cheer them on with banners. It is a very popular race in Jaén, with many people of all ages participating.