The beribboned horses
January 17 is the day of Sant’Antonio Abate, the patron saint of animals. It is in this occasion that, in many Italian towns, the tradition of blessing animals, those of the peasant tradition in particular, is carried out. During these days they are brought to the town squares and then in front of the churches to receive the blessing.
Related to this event, every year Rieti hosts a traditional event that has its roots in the historical and social fabric of the city itself, a tradition dating back to the early twentieth century. In those years, when the carter was the main occupation, the beribboned horses were taken to the blessing celebration on the day that coincides with the anniversary of Sant’Antonio Abate.
