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A man rides his horse through flames during the annual Saint Anthony purification ceremony in the village of San Bartolome de Pinares near Avila late January 16, 2010. The festival coincides every year with the eve of the religious festivity of Saint Anthony, the patron saint of animals. According to tradition, revellers ride their horses through bonfires placed around the village to purify the animals with fire and smoke after receiving a blessing from a priest. Picture taken January 16, 2010. REUTERS/Susana Vera (SPAIN - Tags: RELIGION SOCIETY)
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In this photo, the annual Saint Anthony purification ceremony in the village of San Bartolome de Pinares near Avila comes to life. Against a backdrop of darkness, a fearless man fearlessly rides his horse through roaring flames, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. The festival takes place on the eve of the religious festivity dedicated to Saint Anthony, known as the patron saint of animals. As tradition dictates, participants believe that by guiding their horses through bonfires scattered around the village and subjecting them to fire and smoke, they are purifying these majestic creatures. Before embarking on this daring journey, each horse receives a blessing from a priest—a moment captured beautifully in this image. The intensity and bravery exhibited by both rider and steed is palpable; it symbolizes not only devotion but also trust between humans and animals. This ritualistic act serves as a testament to centuries-old customs deeply rooted in Spanish culture. Photographer Susana Vera skillfully captures this extraordinary event with her lens—freezing time for us all to witness this remarkable display of faith and reverence. Through her photograph, we are transported into a world where ancient traditions intertwine with contemporary celebrations—an unforgettable visual representation of human-animal connection amidst flickering flames.
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