Feast of S. Antonio Abate in Novara di Sicilia

The Feast of Sant'Antonio Abate in Novara di Sicilia is celebrated on January
The feast is preceded by the settena, seven days of preparation during which prayers are recited and ancient melodies are sung villagers to the sound of an old hand-operated pipe organ.
On the eve of the festival, the traditional fire, u fogu, is lit at the base of the bell tower. The fire, over the centuries, has blackened and consumed the steps of the stone staircase leading to the top of the bell tower but, although it is clear that this tradition causes damage to the structure, no one wants to give up this ancient tradition. By lighting the fire, the citizens show their devotion to the Saint and ask for the grace to be healed of the disease commonly called St. Anthony's fire, Herpes Zosther.
The evening before the feast is celebrated a function called u du uri, i.e. the two hours, so called because historically it was celebrated two hours before sunset.
On the morning of the feast, the blessing is celebrated of the animals.
On the day of the festival, the main square of the village is filled with animals, goats, dogs, horses, piglets, which are mainly brought by children to receive the holy protection of the Saint.

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