The Carnival in Foiano

The oldest in Italy

Carnival events are held every year in the city of Foiano and is one of the most famous carnivals in Italy and the oldest having been started in 1539.

For 5 Sundays the city of Foiano hosts street parades and becomes a theatre to celebrate the patron of carnival, King Giocando.

The origins of the carnival festival are derived from the medieval propitiatory rituals meant to appease the townspeople and create a joyous atmosphere to bring in the new year.

Foiano is subdivided into 4 districts (Azzurri, Bombolo, Nottambuli and Rustici) and each area makes a float with preparations taking all year.

Back in the day, carts would carry lupine, chestnuts and salt cod into the town and then be thrown into the crowd as treats but today, floats are made of paper mache, have political and current affairs themes and mechanical technology to make the floats animated and amazing to view.

Here are some amazing photos from last years carnival

Also an effigy of the Carnival King, Giocondo, is made and burnt in the main square to purify the city and it’s citizens.

Floats are judged and the winning float wins the ‘coppa del carnevale’, the carnival cup

Thanks to Luigi Moretti (more pics on): https://www.instagram.com/luigim133/ and https://www.facebook.com/luigi.moretti/

Team, 10/02/2024 12:56:00

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