You can hear them coming with the sound of the ringing bells. Women would better be cautious, one of their favorite game is to grab them, jump, and hit their hips with the bells tied to their belts. Originating from Celtic rituals of fertility, Caretos bring life to the Carnival of Podence. In this town usually populated by around hundred of people; streets become full for a few days. Cleaning out local tavers, heckling tourists, but also bringing back social link and tradition, Caretos become a pillar of local life. Yet many of them come from different countries of Europe and enjoy the opportunity to connect to their roots, their families having left the country decades ago.
Families left Portugal several decades ago, but they kept coming back, the children grew up every summer in the north of Portugal, and they learnt their history. Now they take part in it. It’s a lot about the family.
“It’s a way to keep the social life of the village active. You see elderly, they are so happy to see this tradition living through thanks to the younger generation.”
“It has something to do with where you come from, and a part of our culture.”
“I started when I was 5, 15 years ago, we have my grandfather outfit, but I can’t fit in it anymore.”
“We go around all the houses of the village after. It’s a way to see and talk to everyone, and to try everyone’s home made wine.”