Did you know that these little animals have a big day on the calendar? Every January 17 is the saint anton’s daypatron of these living beings.
This date dates back to the year 251 in Egypt, the time when San Antonio Abad was born, known for giving his inheritance to the poor before going to the desert. At the age of 20 he decided to embark on his own journey around the world alone.
At that age he decided that he would become a Saint and through the observation of natural beings he felt love for all of it.
And, according to a legend, San Antón healed and helped animals that was in his way. This saint is represented dressed as a monk and accompanied by a pig.
As a result of that support that he offered to pets, he is related to their patron and throughout history he has been prayed to protect them.
The date on which he is commemorated is every January 17 as it was the day of his death. For example, in Spain this date has been reserved since the 18th century to celebrate it.
The believers of San Antón usually gather on this day in Saint Peter’s Square, in the Vatican, with their animals to be blessed.
Did you know this celebration?