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Feast of Sant' Antonio
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When:
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17 Jan 2008 (annual)
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Where:
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Giarratana
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| Costs: |
Free
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On 17 January, the statue of Sant' Antonio is carried throughout the town of Giarratana until it finally comes to rest at the church dedicated to him. Many people join the celebration, and pigs may be present for blessing too!
Sant' Antonio Abbate, who is believed to have lived in 250 AD, gave up his wealth by distributing his money to the poor and leading a life of total seclusion. Legend has it that the devil, disguised in the shape of an animal, tempted Antonio several times, with no success.
The devil´s preferred animal for his apparitions was the pig, and perhaps that helps to explain why Sant' Antonio is protector of hogs. Believers invoke the saint to protect their pigs from ill-health, and also for help against skin-related problems.
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