Horses ride through fire to mark Spanish festival of patron saint of animals

In scenes that look like they are straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster, horses jump through bonfires to mark a 500-year-old festival. Luminarias celebrates the patron saint of animals in Spain and each year, hundreds of horses take a leap of faith to ‘purify and protect’ them.



The fiery scenes take place in the village of San Bartolome de Pinares, 100km (62miles) from Madrid. Steeds jump to the sound of drums until the early hours, when the bonfires become giant barbecues for villagers to enjoy.



Although the horses are never harmed, animal welfare groups are not fans of the festival. But villagers believe the flames have cleansing powers and will help to bring them prosperity. Luminarias takes place on the eve of St Anthony’s Day each January.


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Egyptian-born St Anthony Abad has been acknowledged as the patron saint of domesticated animals since the Middle Ages. Villagers believe St Anthony will protect their mules, donkeys and horses throughout the year because of the festival.