The traditional pilgrimage from the church in Valentin to the Argos Reservoir to commemorate the day of St Anton (January 17), the Patron Saint of Animals, will take place this year on Sunday January 19.
It was in the 18th century when the pilgrimages to commemorate the day of St Anton began, a tradition that has continued today and it has also become common for people to go to church with their pets to obtain the blessing of the Patron Saint of Animals.
It is believed that San Antón liked to live surrounded by as many animals as possible, and when he finally died, his legend spread like wildfire and many shepherds trusted him to protect their animals. This is how the tradition began.
This year´s event is organised by the Fiestas Commission of Valentin and this is the programme:
It was in the 18th century when the pilgrimages to commemorate the day of St Anton began, a tradition that has continued today and it has also become common for people to go to church with their pets to obtain the blessing of the Patron Saint of Animals.
It is believed that San Antón liked to live surrounded by as many animals as possible, and when he finally died, his legend spread like wildfire and many shepherds trusted him to protect their animals. This is how the tradition began.
This year´s event is organised by the Fiestas Commission of Valentin and this is the programme:
11:00am Meet at the church in Valentin for the pilgrimage to the Argos Reservoir
12 midday Mass in honour of St Anton and a blessing for the animals.
2pm Traditional Lunch
Menu:
2pm Traditional Lunch
Menu:
-Aperitivo 
-Rice with pork ribs and pork
-Variety of drinks
– Coffee and Desert
Price: Adults 15E and Children 12E
The Rondalla of Calasparra will perform at this event.
