The Carnival of Bosa, known locally as Carrasegare Osincu, is one of Sardinia’s most authentic and evocative celebrations. This festival mixes elements of satire, propitiatory rituals and an enthralling atmosphere that fascinates locals and visitors alike. If you are planning a trip to Sardinia in the winter months, attending the Bosa Carnival will be an unforgettable experience.
Traditional Masks and Carnival Rituals
The Carrasegare Osincu is distinguished by its symbolic masks, which represent different aspects of local culture and history:
S’Attitidu: This mask is among the most evocative of Carnival. Participants dress in black and mime the funeral lament (attitidu) for the death of a puppet representing Carnival. The ritual, steeped in irony, symbolises the end of the festival and the transition to Lent.
Gioltzi: He is the protagonist of the festival, a mocking and irreverent figure who jokes with the crowd and represents the playful spirit of Carnival.
Sos Intintos: Participants smear their faces with soot and oil, making themselves unrecognisable and creating an atmosphere of mystery and anarchy.
Highlights of the Bosa Carnival
The Bosano Carnival is an event that takes place over several days, with unmissable moments:
- Shrove Thursday: The celebrations kick off with dancing and popular songs in the streets of the village.
- Carnival Sunday: The streets of Bosa are filled with colour and music with parades of masked groups and folk shows.
- Monday and Shrove Tuesday: These are the most intense days, with the climax of the festival and the staging of S’Attitidu, which involves the entire village in a surreal and evocative atmosphere.
- Ash Wednesday: The celebrations come to a close with the symbolic burning of Gioltzi, marking the end of Carnival and the beginning of Lent.
Why Visit Bosa During Carnival?
Bosa is a charming town, famous for its pastel-coloured houses, the Malaspina Castle and the banks of the river Temo. During Carnival, the town is transformed into a lively stage, where tradition and fun come together in a unique experience. If you love authentic traditions and popular festivities, the Bosa Carnival is an unmissable event!
