Rain couldn't stop people from bringing their animals to Piazza Pius XII for St. Anthony Abbot's feast day.
Each year, the Vatican welcomes animals, from horses to goats to cows, to the Piazza for a very special blessing, honoring the patron saint and protector of animals.
For some, it was shocking to see the pop-up zoo in the Piazza, while others had planned to see how the Vatican celebrates the feast day.
I really was keen on seeing what kind of animals were here today and I really wanted to see all the Italian animals you have.
Others came to celebrate the feast day and stumbled upon this unique tradition.
Well, we came here for the Mass of St. Anthony the Great and we've heard that the Cardinal comes out to bless the animals at this time of year. And we just thought we'd come along and experience such an amazing event with all the animals here.
But not everyone was a tourist. Some brought their own animals to receive the blessing. For example, this man works for an organization that raises horses for carriage driving.
In the 1950s, these horses helped farmers work the land.
Today, they are used mainly for carriage driving.
The event also brings vendors selling artisan products, like eggs and milk.
The 16th annual St. Anthony's blessing in Piazza Pius XII brings animals of all shapes and sizes, drawing to mind the strong devotion to this Egyptian saint.
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