La Provincia - Diario de Las Palmas
La primera protección no era el agua bendita: así se defendía a los recién naci…
Un ritual que aún sobrevive en la memoria popular
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Canary Islands' Ancient Blessing: Santiguado
Canary Islands: Unveiling the Ancient Tradition of Santiguado In the heart of the Canary Islands, a unique cultural practice continues to resonate through generations: Santiguado. This pre-baptismal blessing, performed on newborns, offers a fascinating glimpse into the islands' rich history and deeply held beliefs. Unlike modern baptism, Santiguado was traditionally carried out before the formal church ceremony, reflecting a profound reverence for protecting infants from unseen harm. "They say that before, the light in the house wasn't extinguished until the newborn was baptized," explains a local resident whose family practiced the tradition. This practice reveals a deep-seated fear of the supernatural, a belief that the child was vulnerable to evil spirits until blessed. The visual imagery of families gathered around a candlelit crib, praying for the child's safety, adds a poignant dimension to the story. The video showcases a series of historical images, providing a visual narrative of the ritual. The images depict families performing the santiguado, with solemn expressions and gestures of faith. These images serve as a powerful testament to the enduring significance of this tradition. While baptism eventually became the primary religious ceremony, Santiguado remains a cherished part of Canarian cultural heritage, a reminder of the islands' unique blend of faith and folklore.
