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Origin
and History of Carnival
Part 3
Wining
and Dining
After the processions there was abundant consumption of
food and drink, because the people brought offerings of
all kind for the deceased, and when the rituals were
over the leaders of the processions were allowed to use
them.
The custom of abundant
consumption can still be considered an intrinsic part of
carnival. And during the road marches of today both
participants and onlookers make sure that there no lack
of food and drink.
Carriage of Mother Earth, Goddess
of Fertility
Carts and coaches also formed part of the processions
for fertility. Those carriages went around the
countryside to assure good harvests which in turn
brought peace.
The symbol of fertility
and peace, Mother Earth, also formed part of the
entities on which the people depended for a prosperous
and happy life.
Gran Marcha 2005
We find a reflection of
this antique deity in our lovely carnival Queens on
their beautifully decorated carriages lighting up the 'Gran
Marcha' (The Great March) on Carnival Sunday.
King Momo, Prince and Pancho
Other characters forming part of the traditions of
modern carnival are 'Rei Momo' (King Momo). Rei Momo is
burned at the end of the festivities, on the evening of
the third day, the day before Ash Wednesday.
Buring of Rei Momo
2005 by Houdini
Momo is a
representation of all the elements that have to vanish
before the period of fasting begins. This figure was
also a symbol of infertility. It explains why Rei Momo
is burned.
In Cura?o the burning
of Rei Momo after the 'Marcha di Despedida' (Farewell
March) is accompanied by fireworks, and draws a huge
crowd.
Prince and Pancho, who
are the bearers of the city's key during the period of
carnival, represent customs of late Medieval Europe with
its important and autonomous cities, where Merry making
and Craziness were supposed to reign during these
festivities.
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