Oratoire de Saint-Éloi

MOISSAC-BELLEVUE

Saint-Eloi is the patron saint of silversmiths and blacksmiths. By association, he is also the patron saint of farriers. His protection, which extends to horses, makes him a very popular saint in the countryside.

On her feast day, December 1, mules and horses were blessed in front of the oratory dedicated to her. This custom underlines the importance of these animals in the rural world, and horses were often decorated for the occasion. The ceremony was accompanied by the firing of shots into the air, intended to ward off evil spirits: this is known as a bravado.
Le 1er décembre, les mules et les chevaux étaient bénis devant l’oratoire dédié à Saint-Eloi.

Spoken languages : French,