Careto House

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Bragança > Macedo de Cavaleiros > Podence > Podence e Santa Combinha

Location

House Careto is nestled in the picturesque village of Podence, a small hamlet located in the municipality of Macedo de Cavaleiros, in the heart of the Bragança district. This location in Trás-os-Montes provides an authentic rural setting, characterized by serene landscapes and an atmosphere of deep connection to traditions. The building harmoniously integrates into the village's urban fabric, which preserves its most traditional architectural features, offering visitors a complete immersion in the Trás-os-Montes environment.

The Tradition of the Caretos

The place is dedicated to the celebration and preservation of the ancient tradition of the Caretos de Podence, emblematic figures of the Chocalheiro Carnival. These unique characters, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, represent the essence of a festival that marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring, a rite of passage full of symbolism and irreverence. The Caretos, with their colorful costumes made of wool fringes, bells, and masks of tin or leather with pointed noses, are the pulsating heart of Podence's identity.

The Museum Space

House Careto functions as an interpretative center and museum, designed to offer an in-depth understanding of the rich tradition of the Caretos. Inside, it is possible to observe up close the elaborate costumes and distinctive masks that adorn these figures during Carnival, understanding the artisanal mastery involved in their creation. The space seeks to unveil the secrets and rituals associated with this ancestral festivity, from its origin to its cultural importance today, providing a dive into the history and symbolism that surround each Careto.

Through a carefully curated exhibition, visitors are invited to explore the cultural and social significance of this unique manifestation, understanding the role of the Caretos in the community and how the tradition is passed down from generation to generation. It is an ideal starting point for those seeking to understand the soul of Podence and the vitality of one of the most genuine expressions of Portuguese folklore.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt