Carnevale is associated with Catholic tradition and runs for the week leading up to Lent at which point a solemn period of fasting and reflection starts. The name Carnevale comes from the Latin ‘carnem levare’ or ‘eliminate meat’ which is part of the Lent fasting. During Carnevale people are allowed to completely let go of obligations and fear of judgement, devoting themselves to having fun. The tradition of wearing masks came about to make it possible - for a short period of time - for class boundaries and social differences to disappear so everyone is equal behind their masks. “A carnevale ogni scherzo vale” (or anything goes during Carnival time) is the Italian saying that best summarizes the meaning of this festivity.
The Venice Carnival is famous for the celebrations taking place in its streets and it’s all about glitz and intricate costumes rooted in centuries old tradition whilst Viareggio celebrates with floats steeped in allegory. Every region has its Carnival character in reference to a regional story - Harlequin is from Bergamo and recounts the tale of a servant named Harlequin who is in a perpetual quarrel with his employer while in Turin, Gianduia is the most popular character. His name comes from Gianduja chocolate and he is a lover of fine food and wines. As part of the festivities, many of the bakeries across Italy will create special treats for the occasion. This week at Spaccio and Sud Forno we are sharing some of these traditions including Frittelle from Romagna along with Castagnole from Rome and Chiacchiere which can be found across the country.
