Bonfire measuring almost 20 meters maintains a century-old tradition on Saint Anthony's Day in MG Residents of Várzea de Santo Antônio, district of Bias Fortes, in the Zona da Mata of Minas Gerais, have maintained for almost 100 years the tradition of building a large bonfire in honor of Santo Antônio, celebrated this Saturday (13). Almost 20 meters high, the structure takes around five days to assemble. Built annually next to the community church, the bonfire draws attention due to its size and has become one of the main symbols of the festival dedicated to the saint. ✅ Click here to follow the g1 Zona da Mata channel on WhatsApp Around 20 volunteers participate every year in building the bonfire, which is done by hand. Among them is the community coordinator, Isaías Justino de Oliveira, 50 years old, who has helped build the structure for 20 years. "In the past, wood was transported in ox carts, which made assembly even more challenging," he recalled. Bonfire measuring almost 20 meters maintains a century-old tradition on Saint Anthony's Day in MG Personal Archive Currently, chainsaws and trucks help with cutting and transporting firewood. Even with the support of the equipment, the campfire continues to be set up by residents. According to Alex Rivelli, one of the party organizers, all the wood used in the bonfire is taken from dry or dead trees, without the need to cut down vegetation. The most anticipated moment of the celebration is the lighting of the bonfire, on the night of Saint Anthony. After burning, the structure naturally collapses, while the flames can remain burning for up to two days. In addition to religious celebrations, the community holds a street party next to the church. The program began on Friday (12) and continues until Sunday (14), bringing together residents, faithful and visitors. Bonfire measuring almost 20 meters maintains a century-old tradition on Saint Anthony's Day in MG Personal Archive History of the matchmaker saint Known as the matchmaking saint, Saint Anthony is one of the most popular saints in the Catholic Church and is celebrated in several Brazilian cities. Saint Anthony was born in Lisbon, Portugal, with the name Fernando, into a noble family. While still young, he dedicated himself to religious life and studies. He became a priest and later joined the Franciscan Order, when he adopted the name Antônio in honor of Saint Antão. Recognized for his preaching and religious teachings, Saint Anthony traveled to different regions of Europe spreading the Catholic faith. After dying in 1231, he was canonized by the Catholic Church in less than a year, a fact that contributed to making him one of the most popular saints in Catholicism. His reputation as a matchmaking saint is linked to a story traditionally attributed to him. According to Catholic tradition, Saint Anthony would have helped a young woman without resources to obtain the dowry necessary to get married. Since then, the saint has become associated with relationships and marriage. READ ALSO: Premature baby weighing 1.5 kg is named Antônio to pay off his mother's promise to the saint of devotion Saint Anthony: learn about the history, miracles and Catholic belief in the patron saint of Juiz de Fora Bonfire of Santo Antônio in the Várzea de Santo Antônio community Personal file VIDEOS: see everything about Zona da Mata and Campos das Vertentes