The fires of Sant’Antonio are the celebrations in honor of Sant’Antonio Abate which are organized every year on the night of January 16th.
It is a deeply felt festival throughout Sardinia that derives from archaic traditions. According to the legend, Sant’Antonio descended into the underworld to steal a spark of fire to give to humans and, precisely for this reason, a bonfire is lit during the night to honor and thank him.
In Austis, the big bonfire is prepared in the square near the church of Santa Maria Assunta. On January 16, after the evening mass, the fire is lit and blessed by the parish priest. The great celebrations then begin with dances around the fire, the sounds of the accordion and traditional songs while people eat together and drink one (or more) glasses of red wine. This festivity is also when the carnival masks make their first official appearance. Sos Colonganos, dance around the fire and parade through the streets of the town together with S’Urtzu and Sos Bardianos.
During the mass prior to the celebrations, sa Pane Manna, a type of bread made with flour, water, sugar and grated orange peel is also blessed. A small part of this blessed bread is thrown on the fire in honor of the Saint while the other is distributed to the people of the town.
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Austis is located in the center of Sardinia about 90 minutes from the main airports and ports of the island.
The village is immersed in a beautiful area, where history is combined with archaic legends. Discover our traditions, genuine flavours, traditional clothes and our most beautiful monuments.
Come to Austis, natural Sardinia
