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2027 editionCarnevale di Massafra
In the heart of Apulia, among the enchanting ravines (gravine) and the scents of Mediterranean scrub, the Carnival of Massafra stands out for its lively atmosphere and its long tradition of papier-mâché craftsmanship. An unmissable event for anyone wanting to discover a new side of the province of Taranto, full of colour, satire and infectious festive spirit.
2027 dates
74th edition · times to be confirmed.
Tickets
Parades of allegorical floats and “primipupi” (masks).
- An official event proudly presented by the local council.
- An event that promises plenty of satire, imagination and tradition.
Where to find updates:
- Follow the official Facebook page of the Carnevale di Massafra for announcements and details.
The Carnevale di Massafra
“The papier-mâché festival in the Land of the Ravines”
Where it is and how to get there
Getting there
- Where: Massafra (TA), in the heart of the Gravine area, Apulia
- Parade times: usually in the afternoon (around 3:00/4:00 pm) and in the evening, with entertainment throughout the town
- Getting there:
- Plane: Bari-Palese (Karol Wojtyła) Airport or Brindisi (Salento Airport). From there you can continue by car (about 50–70 minutes) or by bus to Taranto and then on to Massafra.
- Car: A14 motorway (Massafra exit), then follow the signs for the centre.
- Train: FS Bari–Taranto line, Massafra station.
- Bus: Regional connections (check local bus timetables).
- Ideal for: families, groups of friends, lovers of folklore and papier-mâché art, tourists curious to discover an authentic corner of Apulia.
Official website
The programme, updates and official announcements are published by the organisers.
Gallery
Carnevali d’Italia’s photos from the Carnival of Massafra.
Video
History
Since 1953 Carnival in Massafra has been a celebration for the whole town: "Tutti protagonisti, nessuno spettatore!" (Everyone takes part, nobody just watches!)
The roots of Massafra’s Carnival are old: a document from 1776, kept at the State Archives in Taranto, already records it. The modern festival, however, began as a joke. In 1951 some young men announced a "corrida" in the town’s streets and paraded with a papier-mâché bull, a matador and picadors riding broomsticks. The following year the C.R.A.L. organised the first contest, and in 1953 the Comune launched the first official edition with a parade of allegorical floats: the winner was the "Disco Volante" (Flying Saucer). In 1957 the Pro Loco joined in to strengthen the organisation.
In the 1980s satire of social mores and ever better papier-mâché brought thousands of spectators to Massafra. In 1990 no fewer than 16 floats paraded, a record that still stands.
There are two official masks. Gibergallo, a clown in tails with a rooster on a lead, is a tribute to Gilberto Gallo. Lu Pagghiùsë, created in 2002 by Nicola Andreace, appeared on the National Carnival Lottery ticket in 2003. Since 2005 the master papier-mâché makers have worked in the former municipal slaughterhouse.
The carnival season opens on 17 January, the feast of Sant'Antonio Abate: "Sant'Antuòne, maschere e suòne". In the past the festival was made up of bonfires and the traditional "giovedì" (Thursdays). Today the Carnival is recognised as a historic event by the Regione Puglia and the Ministry of Culture.
Carnevale di Massafra through your eyes
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