The ancient ritual of the Mamuthones in Mamoiada

Carnival is a popular festival particularly awaited in many places in Sardinia, but in Mamoiada it takes on a special significance due to its ancient traditions and unique celebrations.

It is one of the oldest traditional events on the island. Unknown to the world until the 1950s, it later became famous thanks to the masks of the Mamuthones and Issohadores, now a symbol for the entire island. The appearance of the Mamuthones is considered a sign of festivity, joy and auspicious times. It is an ancient ritual that is deeply felt by the entire population, which actively participates in the festival with spontaneous masquerades and traditional costumes. The centre of the carnival is the town's main square, where the Mamoiadini perform the traditional round dance. A social ritual with well-defined rules broken only by the passage of the masks. The square comes to a halt as they pass by and everything becomes almost motionless, where the only movement is that of the Mamuthones and Issohadores and the only sounds that dominate everything are those of the cowbells.

But the Carnival of Mamoiada is not just about masks, it is a time of conviviality and togetherness. The typical sweets and cannonau wine are an integral part of the festival and are offered to Mamoiadini and visitors.