The Heilig Bloedprocessie in Bruges will see a notable change this year as the traditional wagon carrying Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus will no longer be pulled by the famous ox, Medard. Instead, on 2025-05-13 21:44:00, two draft horses will take over this important role during the Ascension Day procession.
- Jozef, Maria, baby Jezus wagen verandert trekdieren
- Os Medard weegt 1,1 ton
- Medard's eigenaar stopt deelname aan processie
- Trekpaarden vervangen os Medard tijdens Hemelvaart
- Etienne Van Nevel noemt leeftijd reden
- Heilig Bloedprocessie wijzigt traditionele trekdieren keuze
Medard, a colossal ox weighing 1.1 tons, has been a cherished symbol in the procession for years. However, his owner, Etienne Van Nevel, has decided to retire the animal from this duty, citing their advancing age as the main reason. This change marks the end of an era for many locals who have grown fond of Medard’s presence.
What does this shift mean for the future of the procession? And how will the community respond to this new tradition?
Why has this change come about, and what impact might it have on the event’s atmosphere? Etienne Van Nevel’s decision highlights important considerations:
- Medard and his owner are both aging, making participation more difficult.
- The use of two draft horses could bring a fresh dynamic to the procession.
- Animal welfare and safety concerns are increasingly influencing traditional events.
Will the community embrace this adaptation, or will nostalgia for Medard linger? The procession’s organizers and attendees will watch closely.
Looking ahead, Bruges’ residents and visitors alike are encouraged to support the procession’s evolving traditions while cherishing the memories of Medard’s many years of service. How will this transition shape future celebrations?
