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St. Anthony Abate was born
in the 3rd Century A.D. and followed a hermit's
life in the Egyptian desert, surrounded
by just animals, hence his attribution as
the protector of animals. However he's also
the patron saint of many other aspects of
farming life and even of firemen.
His feast day is the 17th of January: a
date that's dear to the agricultural community.
In fact, on this day the churches welcome
not just the human congregation, but their
animals too! In virtually every parish in
the Maremma Laziale you'll find some form
of ceremony where the locals can bring their
pets and farmyard animals for a blessing!
In Tuscania there's also the Sagra della
Frittella al cavolfiore, while in Tarquinia
there's a parade with a float decorated
with trees, plants and fountain, plus an
inhabitant dressed as the Saint who blesses
the people (and their animals) as he passes.
Those who can place their animals on the
back of the cart, which takes them into
church for a benediction.
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Versione Italiana
