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Saxon horseback riders spread Easter message

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Saxon horseback riders spread Easter message
Photo: DPA

More than 1,500 horseback riders have taken part in a traditional Easter procession to spread the message of Jesus’ resurrection in Upper Lusatia in Saxony.

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Thousands turned out to watch a total of nine processions which took various routes to stop at the towns of Bautzen, Kamenz and Hoyerswerda.

The annual procession also features a select gathering of riders in the grounds of the St Marienstern monastery. Men sporting traditional tailcoats and white gloves carry crosses, church banners and statues of Jesus while they perform prayers and songs.

The custom dates back to the fifteenth century and some have even traced the roots of the tradition to pre-Christian times, when farmers believed they could protect their crops by encircling them on horseback.

The 100 riders who gathered in the monastery conferred Easter greetings and prayed for a healthy harvest.

DAPD/The Local/kkf

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