PABLO BLAZQUEZ PHOTOGRAPHY

2016/12/07 Jarandilla de la Vera, Spain: Revellers take part during 'Los Escobazos' Festival on December 7, 2013 in Jarandilla de la Vera, in Extremadura region, Spain. Although the origin of 'Los Escobazos' is unknown, it is believed that goat shepherds used to walk down from Gredos mountains to the village to cerebrate the Immaculate Conception procession lighting their way with broom torches. The ritual takes place every December 7, one day before Immaculate Conception day, because the following morning shepherds had to be back with their herd in the mountains. Villagers also used to bring their donkeys to the procession on the belief that this would bless them keeping illnesses away from them. At nightfall people make bonfires in the streets and start a battle with burning brooms, followed by the Immaculate Conception Procession. (Photo by Pablo Blazquez Dominguez)