The Miracle of Saint Anthony

Portugal2012documentary40'

In the middle of June, the village of Santo Antonio de Mixoes da Serra in Northern Portugal honours its patron saint. On this day, the local farmers bring their animals to the church – cows, horses, dogs, cats, chickens and rabbits – to be blessed. This ancient tradition is passed from generation to generation, and today, just like hundreds of years ago, animals and people flock up the mountain roads to the church square to become a part of the religious event. Sergei Loznitsa, with unique patience, observes the believers, telling the story of the miracle.