This morning, thousands of people took part in the long procession, accompanied by riflemen's shots, which wound along the ancient sheep tracks to accompany the statue of Saint Anthony of Padua (Sant'Antoni 'e su monte) to the sanctuary on the mountain, surrounded by an immense forest.
It marked the beginning of three intense days of tradition and faith, involving everyone without distinction, which take place mainly between today and Sunday, with the great religious festival of June 13th in between, which attracts thousands of faithful from all over the island.
The procession, as per centuries-old tradition, departed from the parish church of San Pantaleo, traveling approximately 13 kilometers, following a route known as the "Intro 'e monte." The Sagra del Monte is a major religious and cultural event, attracting thousands of faithful and visitors.
Tomorrow, however, the celebration takes on a particularly solemn character . A solemn mass is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., presided over by Bishop Mauro Maria Morfino, the parish priest Father Andrea Rossi, the deputies, Father Marco Saurra, and other local priests. The mass will be accompanied by traditional singing by the Città di Macomer choir, directed by Enrico Pilo. This year, the organization of the events on the mountain, coordinated by the Society of Saint Anthony of Padua, has been entrusted to the Fedales, founded in 1982. "We are experiencing days of great participation," says president Tiziana Atzori, "giving a great contribution of faith, but above all committed to the cultural and traditional activities that this festival offers."
A significant number of sick and suffering people attended, accompanied by volunteers from various associations, such as Oftal, the organization dedicated to transporting the sick to Lourdes. The statue of the saint will return to the city on Sunday morning, in a long procession accompanied by riflemen, knights, and costumed groups.