L'Italo-Americano

www.italoamericano.org 8 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024 L'Italo-Americano NEWS & FEATURES TOP STORIES PEOPLE EVENTS V e n e z i a a n d V i a r e g g i o a r e t h e m o s t f a m o u s , b u t there are other h i s t o r i c a l l y s i g n i f i c a n t C a r n e v a l i a r o u n d I t a l y , Putignano, Cento, and Fano being, perhaps, the names we are more familiar with. We are talking about events with a l o n g h i s t o r y a n d t h a t , through time, managed to develop a deep and meaning- ful connection with the terri- tory, often becoming its sym- bol. In 2022, in a significant m o v e t o w a r d s c u l t u r a l preservation and internation- al recognition, some of our most notable historic carni- v a l s - t h o s e o f A v o l a , Acireale, Cento, Foiano, San Giovanni in Persiceto, Sciac- ca, Putignano, Tempio Pau- sania, and Fano - united in their quest for U N E S C O Intangible Cultural Her- i t a g e s t a t u s . I t w a s a n important move, born from the desire to highlight their unique cultural and tradi- tional significance, at nation- al and international levels. The initiative was led by the Carnival of Fano, one of Italy's oldest, and it was the city's Mayor, Massimo Seri, who perhaps explained b e s t t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f Carnevali for the community, when he said that they "bring joy and unity, especially fol- lowing challenging times," also noting the "intrinsic cul- tural identity each festival carries." UNESCO's decision about the candidature should take place soon: it's time, then, to take a closer look at these eleven magical Carnevali, while keeping our fingers crossed for them, of course! Carnevale di Acireale (Sicily) The Acireale Carnival is known for its magnificent baroque-style floats adorned with flowers, making it one of Italy's most beautiful carni- vals. Originating in the 16th century, this event transi- tions from citrus-throwing festivities to a grand parade of allegorical and grotesque papier-mâché floats, often based on satirical themes and characterized, as is often the c a s e , b y t h e i r i n c r e d i b l e beauty and the artistry of local float builders. C a r n e v a l e d i A v o l a (Sicily) W h i l e n o t a s k n o w n a s others in this list, the Carni- val of Avola impresses for its blend of traditional festivities and local folklore. Avola's carnival is characterized by its colorful street parades, traditional costumes, and the involvement of the whole community in celebrating the end of winter and the antici- pation of spring. This aspect connects it directly to the ancient celebrations of our R o m a n a n c e s t o r s , w h i c h u s e d t o t a k e p l a c e i n t h e same period of the year. C a r n e v a l e d i C e n t o (Emilia-Romagna) Twinned with Rio's Carni- val, Cento's celebrations are a spectacle of color, music, and creativity. Known for its elab- orate floats and the burning of the Tasi mask, this event draws on a long history and tradition: its celebration was already depicted in the fres- coes of Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, known as Guercino, a baroque painter born in Cento in 1591, and active as a n a r t i s t e s p e c i a l l y i n Bologna and Rome. C a r n e v a l e d i F a n o (Marche) The Carnival of Fano is considered the oldest in Italy, predating even the Carnival of Venice. It offers a unique blend of historical tradition and community celebration, and it is particularly famous for its getto dei dolciumi - the t h r o w i n g o f s w e e t s a n d chocolates to the crowd from floats. Carnevale di Foiano (Tuscany) Dating back to the 16th century, Foiano's carnival is among the oldest in Italy and it is renowned for its large papier-mâché floats and the symbolic burning of the King of the Carnival, a moment s y m b o l i z i n g t h e s p i r i t o f satire, renewal, and commu- nity that pervades this his- toric celebration . Carnevale di Mamoia- da (Sardinia) T h i s u n i q u e c a r n i v a l stands out for its traditional masks, the Mamuthones and Issohadores, which are asso- ciated with ancient rites of fertility and nature. The mys- t e r i o u s , s o m b e r Mamuthones, clad in black sheepskins, contrast with the c o l o r f u l I s s o h a d o r e s a n d offer us a glimpse into Sar- dinia's rich cultural heritage and the community's deep connection to its past . C a r n e v a l e d i M e l i l l i (Sicily) A cherished event in the H y b l e a n t e r r i t o r y , t h i s Carnevale is known, as many of the other Carnevali in this list, for its allegorical floats and masked groups. The first Carnevale in Melilli was cele- brated in 1936 when the "a Someggiata" group created a special float called "Vivere - Non si Muore Mai," a sen- tence that well embodies the joy de vivre we often associ- ate with Carnevale celebra- tions everywhere. The carni- v a l i s a t i m e w h e n t h e community, wearing cos- tumes and masks, partakes in impromptu skits, reflecting a deep-rooted tradition that continues to thrive today. C a r n e v a l e d i P u t i g - nano (Apulia) R e c o g n i z e d a s o n e o f Europe's longest carnival cel- ebrations, Putignano's festiv- ities begin on December 26, leading up to Lent. Its histo- ry, which dates back to 1394, is celebrated with elaborate floats, masks, and a mix of satire and tradition, high- lighting the community's cre- a t i v i t y a n d t h e c a r n i v a l ' s deep-rooted significance . Carnevale di San Gio- vanni in Persiceto (Emil- ia-Romagna) This carnival is famous for its unique "Spilli" tradition, where floats reveal surprising transformations, engaging the audience with satirical representations of current events and personalities. Its blend of humor, artistry, and c o m m u n i t y i n v o l v e m e n t makes it a distinctive celebra- tion within Italy's carnival landscape. Carnevale di Sciacca (Sicily) Sciacca's Carnival is one of Sicily's most vibrant, with its detailed floats, traditional costumes, and lively atmos- phere. The event peaks with the crowning of the King of the Carnival, a representa- tion of the town's spirit and enthusiasm. Sciacca's festivi- ties are a highlight of Sicilian culture, that combine creativ- ity, tradition, and communal joy. Carnevale di Tempio Pausania (Sardinia) In the heart of Sardinia, Tempio Pausania's carnival is celebrated with traditional masks, folk dances, and a strong sense of community. The event is known for its unique masks, such as the Giants, representing histori- cal figures, and the Merdules, an amazing example of local craftsmanship and cultural identity. The pursuit of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status is a natural progres- sion for these historical car- nivals, which aim to see their role in contributing to the identity and cultural richness of their regions recognized. I n d e e d , s u c h r e c o g n i t i o n would not only validate their cultural and historical signifi- cance but also ensure their preservation and safeguard- ing in the years to come. As these communities await the decision, their unified effort is yet another sign of the strong connection between them and their history and traditions, and of the impor- tance of cultural identity and heritage. A colorful masquerade at the Carnevale in Cento (Photo: Ilviaggiatore/Dreamstime) The Italian Carnevali that want to become a UNESCO Heritage CHIARA D'ALESSIO

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