Countries
Italy
Barbaricino Carnival

Barbaricino Carnival

Name: Barbaricino Carnival
Start: 2025-02-28
End: 2025-03-03
Location: Barbagia

A Primal Dance of Man and Nature

Every February, the rugged Barbagia region in central Sardinia erupts in a frenzy of ancient rituals and wild celebrations during the "Barbaricino Carnival." This unique festival, deeply rooted in the island's pastoral culture, transforms quiet mountain villages into vibrant stages where masked figures enact primordial battles between humans and nature. For visitors seeking an authentic, untamed carnival experience, the Barbaricino offers a thrilling journey into Sardinia's mystical heart.

Main Attractions

The Dance of Masks: Mamuthones and Issohadores

At the core of the Barbaricino Carnival are the mesmerizing performances of masked figures known as Mamuthones and Issohadores. In villages like Mamoiada, Ottana, and Orotelli, the appearance of these two traditional characters fills the streets with a unique soundscape.

The Mamuthones are the stars of this festival. They wear black sheepskins and eerie wooden masks, giving the impression of beings halfway between human and beast, reminiscent of ancient spirits. The Mamuthones perform a slow, ponderous dance. On their backs, they carry up to 30 kg of cowbells, creating a rhythmic sound that evokes a mystical atmosphere. Typically, there are 12 Mamuthones, said to symbolize the 12 months of the year.

In contrast, the Issohadores are the counterpoint to the Mamuthones. They wear vibrant red and white costumes adorned with brass bells. The Issohadores act as both guardians of the Mamuthones and intermediaries with the audience. They dance nimbly around the Mamuthones, occasionally lassoing spectators with a rope called "soha" in a symbolic purification ritual. There are usually 8 or 10 Issohadores.

The interplay between these two masked figures creates a captivating spectacle that draws viewers into a world where the boundaries between myth and reality blur. The contrast between the heavy movements of the Mamuthones and the agile steps of the Issohadores symbolizes the unique charm of the Barbaricino Carnival, where ancient traditions merge with modern celebration.

Masks and Costumes: Wearable Art and History

The masks and costumes of the Barbaricino Carnival are not mere decorations; they are true works of art, each imbued with deep meaning. Particularly striking are the "Merdules" from the village of Ottana. Merdules, meaning "cowherds," are key figures in this carnival. Their masks are carefully carved from pear or fig wood. The facial features are exaggerated, exuding an eerie, beast-like quality. Some masks are blackened with smoke to enhance their mystical appearance. These masks are painstakingly crafted by skilled artisans over several months.

The Merdules wear large sheepskins and carry whips and sticks. These are used to control another masked character called "Boes," which symbolizes cattle. The relationship between Merdules and Boes represents the power dynamic between humans and nature, reflecting ancient agricultural and pastoral rituals.

The costumes themselves are like tangible history books. Sheepskins, cowbells, and leather straps tell the story of the region's long pastoral history. The intricate embroidery on the Issohadores' costumes showcases the craftsmanship of Sardinian artisans. If you're lucky, you might witness a mask-making demonstration. Feeling the rough texture of the wood and smelling the earthy scents of the natural materials used can deepen your understanding of this tradition. All these elements narrate the profound cultural significance and long history of the Barbaricino Carnival.

Feasts and Libations

The Barbaricino Carnival is as much a feast for the palate as it is for the eyes and ears. In village squares, the air is thick with the aroma of roasting meats, particularly the succulent "porchetto" (suckling pig) slowly turning on spits. Street vendors offer "sebadas," crispy pastries filled with fresh cheese and drizzled with honey, their sweetness creating a perfect contrast with the savory smells of meat.

Local wines flow freely, with the robust red wine "Cannonau" being a particular favorite. Its deep, fruity notes complement the hearty carnival fare perfectly. For the brave, there's "filu 'e ferru," a potent distilled spirit that locals swear helps ward off the winter chill. As night falls, communal dinners in town halls become raucous affairs, with traditional music and impromptu dancing lasting well into the early hours.

Cultural and Historical Background

The Barbaricino Carnival is a traditional festival held in the Barbagia region of central Sardinia. Its origins are ancient, believed to predate even the Roman presence on the island. The festival is thought to have evolved from ancient rituals for ensuring good harvests, warding off evil spirits, and celebrating the end of winter and the arrival of spring.

One of the unique features of this carnival is the "Canto a tenore," a traditional singing style performed by four men. This distinctive polyphonic singing was recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2005. Canto a tenore is performed in various settings, including the Barbaricino Carnival, and has become a symbol of the region's cultural identity.

For the people of Barbagia, this carnival is more than just a festival. It's a vital link to their ancestors and a proud expression of their cultural identity. In a region that has fiercely preserved its unique culture against outside influences, the carnival stands as a symbol of the enduring strength of Sardinian traditions.

In recent years, the Barbaricino Carnival has gained recognition beyond Sardinia, attracting cultural tourists and researchers from around the world. While this brings pride to the local community, it also presents the challenge of balancing the preservation of authentic traditions with the economic benefits of tourism. However, this challenge is also seen as an opportunity to enrich the carnival and ensure its sustainability for future generations.

Participant Voices

I traveled all the way from America to witness the Barbaricino Carnival, and the experience exceeded my expectations! On the day of the carnival, the entire village was enveloped in an unusual tension, as if I had wandered into another world. Watching the preparation process was particularly impressive. The ritual-like dressing of the Mamuthones was awe-inspiring, especially when they shouldered the 30-kilo bells. The moment they put on their black masks, it was as if I was witnessing their transformation from modern men into ancient spirits - it sent chills down my spine. When the parade began, the heavy footsteps of the Mamuthones and the sound of their bells echoed throughout the village, as if the earth itself was ringing. In contrast, I found myself cheering for the Issohadores with their nimble movements and their skillful lassoing of spectators. I was also touched by the warmth of the locals. An elderly gentleman approached me and kindly explained the meaning of the masks and the origins of the rituals. His eyes were filled with pride as he said, "This festival is our very soul." It was also a wonderful memory to be able to converse with villagers I had just met, overcoming the language barrier. I was deeply moved by the Mamoiada people's attachment to their traditions and their warm welcome to visitors. I felt as if I had touched the soul of Sardinia. I will definitely come back.

Fun Facts

The total weight of the bells worn by the Mamuthones can reach up to 30 kg, and skilled performers can create different rhythms and melodies with their movements.
In some villages, it's considered good luck to be lassoed by an Issohadore during the carnival.
The wood used for masks is often from trees struck by lightning, believed to imbue the mask with special powers.
Some of the dances performed during the carnival are thought to mimic the movements of animals, connecting the performers to the natural world.
Despite its ancient origins, women were only allowed to participate as masked performers in some villages starting in the 1990s.

Festival Dates

The Barbaricino Carnival typically takes place in the days leading up to Lent, with the main celebrations occurring on the weekend before Ash Wednesday. Exact dates and duration can vary slightly between different villages in the Barbagia region.