Carnival of Corato in Apulia, Masks and Walking Parades

The Carnival of Corato traces its origins back to the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. However, the improvised and spontaneous events often led to acts of vandalism. The desire to make the event safe, joyful, and inclusive has over the years led to the regulation of the event.

Carnival of Corato: 1970s

Starting from 1978, thanks to the strong will of the pro loco association and the municipal administration, the “Carnevale Coratino” was established. Over the years, the carnival has become a highly anticipated, festive event enjoyed not only by the community of Ruvo but by all citizens of the northern Bari area.

The parades of masked groups marching on foot have for decades filled the main streets of Corato during carnival, transforming the Apulian town into a river of colors and sounds. The Carnival of Corato is also enriched by some symbolic masks.

Typical Masks of the Corato Carnival

Only the masks of the traditional carnival of Ruvo remain as a memory of the ancient Carnival of Corato: “U Panzone”, “La Vecchiaredd”, and “U Sceriff”.

“U Panzone” (the Panzone) dates back to the late 1800s and is an allegory of the wealth flaunted by the powerful and overbearing agrarian bourgeoisie.

“La Vecchiaredd” (the Old Lady), perhaps imported from the Neapolitan tradition, represents the strength of the older generation carrying on their shoulders the new, weak, and defenseless generation still growing.

“U Sceriff” (The Sheriff), was born in the 1950s/60s in the spirit of the economic prosperity of those years and the exuberance of Western heroes.

The Corato carnival is enriched every year with new themes represented by the various participating groups. There are thousands of performers, encouraged also by the large number of people who line the route. Usually, there are three key days for the Carnival of Corato: the Sunday before the last days of Carnival; Carnival Sunday; and Fat Tuesday.

The parade almost always takes place in the same way. Participating groups, whether representing schools, parishes, or private individuals, parade showcasing costumes and choreography based on the year’s theme, to the rhythm of music broadcasted by a small motorized vehicle leading the procession.

After completing the entire route, all groups converge in the square adjacent to the Town Hall, where metal stands have also been set up to allow a better viewing of the carnival spectacle.

The uniqueness of this carnival lies not only in public involvement but also in the participation of the entire Corato community. It is a deeply felt event in the city that requires several months of preparation during which craftsmen and artisans are also called to contribute.