In Bologna and its countryside, January 17 is not just any day: it is the feast of Sant'Antonio Abate , patron saint of animals and stables. 🐖🐓🐴
In the past, this day was a moment of strong unity between peasant families. The priest went from house to house to bless the animals, with a special thought for the pigs and the stables. After sunset, the farmyards came to life: each family lit a large bonfire as a good omen for the new year. There was a competition to make the most beautiful and brightest one, amid laughter and stories around the fire. 🔥✨
But a party is not a party without its flavors: in the kitchens, simple but traditional dishes were prepared: a nice plate of steaming polenta with ragù, apple fritters - a symbol of abundance - which, being considered Carnival sweets, began to appear because the Carnival time had already begun on January 7th! 🥞🍎
This ancient tradition reminds us of the value of community and the deep bond with the land and its rhythms. 🌾
Have you ever heard of this custom? Today as then, celebrating Sant'Antonio Abate is a way to look to the future with hope and gratitude.
🔥 Send this article to someone you would light an auspicious bonfire with!