History of the Acireale Carnival
- The Carnival of Acireale, celebrated in the baroque city of Acireale, in the province of Catania, is considered one of the oldest and most spectacular carnivals in Sicily. Often called “the most beautiful Carnival of Sicily”, boasts a rich and fascinating history that dates back several centuries.
- Origins
- The first documented traces of the Carnival of Acireale date back to the 16th century. Initially, the celebrations were rather simple and spontaneous, characterized by street games, dances, songs and masks. It was an occasion where the people gathered to celebrate the carnival period with freedom and joy, often throwing fruit, citrus fruits and other foods as a sign of celebration and abundance.
- One of the typical elements of the celebrations was the “cassariate”, a form of improvised satire in which people commented, with irony and sarcasm, facts about local news, politics and customs.
- Evolution of the Carnival
- From the 17th and 18th centuries, the carnival began to structure itself, integrating more complex and organized elements. As time passed, the festival was enriched with parades and shows, becoming an event more refined and attended.
- Late nineteenth century: The Carnival of Acireale began to be distinguished by the presence of the first floats, made of wood and paper pesta. The construction of these wagons became a local art form, with skilled craftsmen working for months on their creation.
- The 1930s: A unique and distinctive element of the Acireale carnival was introduced: the decorated floats. These floats, entirely decorated with fresh flowers, added a touch of elegance and natural beauty to the event.
- The Modern Carnival
- In the 20th century, the Acireale Carnival became one of the main cultural attractions of Sicily, attracting visitors from all over Italy and abroad. The streets of the city, framed by its splendid baroque heritage, become the ideal setting for the parades.
- Today, the carnival includes:
- Allegorical-grotesque floats: works of art in motion, enriched by lights, music and mechanical movements.
- Flower Carts: Beautiful floral creations, unique in their kind.
- Masked groups: Choreographies and costumes involving young people and adults.
- Concerts and shows: Hosted in the main squares of the city.
- Cultural significance
- The Carnival of Acireale is not only a fun party, but represents a moment of artistic and cultural expression. The tradition of floats and flower displays testifies to the craftsmanship of the acesi and the strong link of the city with its historical roots.
- Conclusion
- The Carnival of Acireale is today a perfect combination of history, art and fun. Participating in it means immersing yourself in one of the most beautiful traditions of Sicily, living an experience that combines spectacular, culture and collective joy.
- We look forward to your comments!