“At carnival the whole world is young, even the old ones. At carnival the whole world is beautiful, even the ugly ones ".
To make this statement is Nicolaï Evreïnov, who evidently knows the reality of the carnival well.
It is a holiday that, in Catholic society, is associated with a religious factor and therefore has always had a particular importance in the Italian scenario.
It is a way to make the holiday period to the extreme, to "overdo it" before the period of fasting and abstinence prior to the period of Lent.
Thus the Italians have become over time masters in the art of carnival entertainment. Masks are a way to break free from inhibitions and let the "true face" of yourself emerge unfiltered during the holidays.
The masks
Each mask has very specific character traits in which in many respects it can be easy to identify. They are nothing more than classic Italian prototypes re-proposed in a colorful, theatrical and above all very ironic and explicit version.
From the Neapolitan and melancholy Pulcinella, to the colorful Lombard Arlecchino. From the Lazio Rugantino to the sweet Venetian Colombina. Each one from the different points of the Italian regions brings with their own stories and characteristics.
Seeing them interfacing with each other is a lot of fun because of the diversities that intersect from north to south.
From non-verbal language, to gestures, to different dialects, in reality the masks are an extremeization of the average Italian.
Different cultures, here are some of the typical Italian carnivals
Venezia
It seems that the Venice carnival is one of the oldest in Italy and in the world.
It has always existed, probably even before Catholicism took hold, as a way to break the mold and give the people some rewarding leisure time.
Today the Venice carnival is a stage that foresees the start already in the month of January and ends during the first days of March.
An event made up of parades, musical performances with artists, singers, dancers and actors from different parts of the world. All to pay homage to the historicity of the Venice carnival, a tourist attraction and a city of vices and wildness.
Mamoiada
One of the most exciting and heartfelt carnivals is undoubtedly the carnival of Mamoiada.
Sardinia is a treasure trove of culture and treasures. Among these, the very traditional Sardinian carnival is among the best known for its primitive origins. The use of the Mamuthones and Issohadores who with their cowbells begin to be warned already during the feast of Sant'Antonio in the month of January.
A totemic rite, masks covered in sheepskin and an evocative show demonstrating the dark and hidden side that hides behind every living being. It is worth living it fully, without inhibitions!
Satriano
There is also the carnival of Satriano. In Basilicata, more like a popular holiday and which every year registers many visitors intrigued by the unusual way of experiencing the carnival.
The three typical masks around which the carnival revolves are the bear, the hermit and Lent. All participants are invited to take part in the scene so as not to be excluded in what can be defined as a real celebration of the carnival. Not to be missed!
Carnival delicacies
Let's now move on to the culinary aspect. Because, when inhibitions are lost in the lashing truths that the masks reveal, even the gluttony wants its part!
Fried foods are the most popular! So it will be convenient to turn a blind eye to the diets and good intentions that have just begun and to throw greedily on carnival delicacies.
The Venetian fritole, which are now widespread throughout Italy, better known as San Giuseppe's zeppole. Without forgetting the arancini of the Marche. Above all, the typical dessert par excellence are the Chiacchiere that no one can give up!
Another custom is the preparation of sweet blood sausage, which from Basilicata has infected southern Italy.
There is no escape from the carnival! It is a good opportunity to give free rein to your vices!
Carnival in Malta
Carnival this year begins to celebrate at the beginning of February. The Maltese Carnival takes place, strange but true, in 2 periods, the winter and the summer.
The "winter" one this year will be set up from 24 to 28 February mainly in the Valletta "Belt" for the island of Malta and in Nadur, Gozo. This does not mean that small parades or initiatives can also be held in neighboring towns and villages.
The typical sweets of “il-Karnival tax-Xitwa” are the pinjolata (dessert made with pine nuts) and the perlini (our sugared almonds).
A flashback occurs in the 3rd week of August in Bugibba, where the annual “il-Karnival tas-Sajf” takes place, with floats, initiatives and parties scattered throughout the village!
Enjoy !!!!
http://www.carnevale.venezia.it/
http://www.sardegnagrandieventi.it/it/evento/carnevale-di-mamoiada
