Hadrian’s Palace – January 17

St. Anthony Abbot and the blessing of animals

St. Anthony Abbot, venerated by the faithful of the Greek-Byzantine rite and introduced by Basilian monks, is celebrated on January 17. After the celebration of mass, the simulacrum is led in front of the secondary entrance or “sirocco gate” of the Maria SS. Assunta Church. The priest proceeds to bless the animals using a bunch of herbs, which he dips in the blessed water.

Finally, he blesses the people parading in front of the statue of the saint. The feast of St. Anthony Abbot also marks the beginning of Carnival, which in Palazzo Adriano is celebrated with dances and contradances in cultural circles in the square until dawn on Ash Wednesday.

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