Maskaras, the Sardinian summer Carnival, is a unique event
An atypical Carnival, with tragic and gloomy masks that move at a cadenced pace. Let’s discover the Maskaras.
Muravera (Murèra in Sardinian) is a small town of just over 5,000 inhabitants, in the Sardinian sub-region of Sarrabus. It is a place full of history and symbols, and it is where the Maskaras Carnival is held. This is a completely different event compared to the winter Carnival. In fact, the masks are tragic and gloomy, and they move with a cadenced step to the heavy and odd sound of cowbells.
All this takes place during a long parade that runs along the main street of the town. Because of the ritual dances and propitiatory rites linked to agriculture, Maskaras has a lot to do with the Carnival of Mamoiada, which is held in winter in the village of the same name. It is a truly unique event, an example of the authenticity of Sardinia and its agro-pastoral rites.
In this article we’ll talk about when the event takes place, the masks and many other curiosities about this special Carnival.
The masks of the Maskaras Carnival
After two years of forced stop caused by the pandemic, Muravera is preparing to welcome the great event that has characterized the country’s summer for many years. During the 17th edition of Maskaras the Carnival masks will parade again along via Roma, the main street of the town, starting at 10 pm on Tuesday 9 August.
Participating in this Carnival means taking part in a fascinating collective ritual. In fact, one cannot be just a mere spectator, since the numerous masks are extremely engaging. Their ancestral rites do not leave indifferent, so many people get overwhelmed by this primitive and tribal atmosphere. Authentic Sardinia still exists and it is in these moments that all its essence comes to light.
The groups of masks that parade in Muravera are many and mostly come from the north of Sardinia. Maskaras is attended by the Mamuthones and the Issohadores of the aforementioned Carnival of Mamoiada, the Boes and Merdules of Ottana, the Sos Thurpos of Orotelli, the Sos Tamburinos of Gavoi, the Su Bundu of Orani and many others.
Between two wings of the crowd, the major representative groups of the Sardinian Carnival will parade along the road to the rhythm of cowbells and ropes, and with unique movements that will fascinate the spectators of an event that is difficult to forget.
The well-known singer, presenter and promoter Giuliano Marongiu will tell the story of each group from a stage in Piazza Europa. During the current year he has also organized and directed the Citrus Festival, another great event in Muravera (there are so many festivals in Sardinia). Marongiu will reveal the secrets behind those masks that move in a fascinating and mysterious way.
In addition, the ethnic musical group Dilliriana will accompany the show of dances with the notes, songs and traditional Sardinian rhythms. The square will turn into a big party thanks to the sounds of the launeddas and the accordion.
For more info on the event and updates on the program, you can visit the official website of the municipality of Muravera and its Facebook page.
Sagra degli Agrumi: another great event in Muravera
Muravera hosts another great event: Sagra degli Agrumi, or the Citrus Festival. Every April the town celebrates the arrival of spring with an unmissable event characterized by the colors of wonderful costumes, filigree jewels, carpets and tapestries that decorate the streets of the city. The event also includes a large parade of Tracas, the decorated floats used on the occasion of popular celebrations.
Together with the Maskaras Carnival, Sagra degli Agrumi is another moment of great local and tourist interest. Both events are examples of true Sardinia.
Do you want to discover the Sardinian tradition of Maskaras and live a holiday full of charm and elegance? Book a stay at Palazzo Doglio in Cagliari
