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Spain's Controversial Rituals: Bonfires for Horses and Pet Blessings

1/17/2026

23 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On January 16, 2026, hundreds gathered in San Bartolome de Pinares, Spain, for Las Luminarias, a ritual honoring Saint Anthony the Abbot in which riders guide horses through bonfires to purify the animals.
Animal rights groups criticized the event, while locals say the horses are rarely harmed.
The next day, Madrid residents blessed dogs and cats at churches.
Both events reflect Spain's cultural traditions surrounding animals and community.

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Story summary

On January 16, 2026, hundreds gathered in San Bartolome de Pinares, Spain, for Las Luminarias, a ritual honoring Saint Anthony the Abbot in which riders guide horses through bonfires to purify the animals.
Animal rights groups criticized the event, while locals say the horses are rarely harmed.
The next day, Madrid residents blessed dogs and cats at churches.
Both events reflect Spain's cultural traditions surrounding animals and community.