Bonfire in Bagnaia for Sant Antonio Abate

An incredible night last night in Bagnaia, for the Sacred Fire of St. Antonio. The night begins with townspeople in medieval costume, and the priest blesses the pyramid of logs before they light it afire. We were here in 2020, just before the pandemic began, which is the last time this festival was able to take place. The excitement was palpable; the people of Bagnaia really missed this festival and were very, very excited to have it back.

We definitely should have worn a mask last night; this morning we’re coughing from inhaling all that smoke. The roiling smoke rolling over the crowd is extreme; at times we were completely blinded. After the pyramid caught fire in earnest, the heat from it was unbelievable. The rain held off until the pyramid was half burned, which was lucky. Oh, and there was a dancing tuba player too, playing with the (very loud) band.

This morning, when we left at 9am, the piazza was completely cleaned, as if nothing has happened. What happens in Bagnaia stays in Bagnaia, I guess.