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 saint of pets? What is the origin of this tradition?
According to biblical writings, Saint Anthony the Abbot, while living an austere life, discovered divine wisdom and love through nature, blessing animals. The story goes that one day he approached a wild boar with her piglets, which were blind. Therefore, Saint Anthony the Abbot cured them, and from then on the wild boar never left his side. For this reason, the saint is depicted with a piglet at his feet. After his death, livestock farmers took him as the protector and patron saint of domestic animals.
How is it celebrated?
Saint Anthony's Day is celebrated in many cities across Spain, especially in Madrid.
Every January 17, Madrid becomes Pet Day. From early in the morning, as tradition dictates, dozens of animals accompanied by their owners lined up at the doors of the Church of Saint Anthony to receive the saint's blessing.
Father Ángel, a priest at the Church of Saint Anthony, spoke to the media, including ARISTOPET, saying that it is a “day of festivities and blessings, when we bless others and also ask for blessings for ourselves and our animals.”
Many local residents, accompanied by their ARISTOPET, whether cat or dog, went to the church to celebrate the day. For many, it has become “a tradition,” and year after year they line up to receive the blessing. Some ARISTOPARENTS asked for health, love, and many wonderful experiences together with their pets.
The Madrid City Council organized a series of activities throughout the week to celebrate the patron saint of pets, concluding on Sunday. Here, you can see the schedule of activities.
ARISTOPET organized an event with Cocina de San Antón and the Amores Peludos Association at San Antón Market. A space with a photo booth was set up on the terrace of Cocina de San Antón so that ARISTOPETERS could have their pictures taken with their pets while enjoying hot broth. They were also given gifts from Trixie.
Members of the Amores Peludos Association also attended with four ARISTODogs, with the aim of introducing them to people looking to give them a home. Just as we found a home for Luigi, we would love to find a home for all the dogs in the association's care. We met Rumba, who is 10 months old and was recently rescued by the association. She is a very sweet and sociable greyhound who left a lasting impression on the terrace. She approached everyone, and everyone wanted to meet her. We are looking for the home she deserves. Will you help us find her one?
Celebrations in different cities across Spain
Jaén
In Jaén, “Saint Anthony's Night” is celebrated with bonfires and a popular race. For the past few years, the race has been moved to the Saturday closest to January 17, instead of being held on the patron saint's day. This year it will be this Saturday, January 19. The athletes run through the streets of Jaén while spectators cheer them on with banners. It is a very popular race in Jaén, attracting many participants of all ages.