Historical Carnival of Monterubbiano

A Carnival Rediscovering Its Roots

In the medieval village of Monterubbiano, in the province of Fermo, Carnival is not a parade of floats but a return to an ancient popular custom. For years, the Monterubbiano Carnival tradition, which once gathered the entire town and the surrounding countryside, attracting hundreds of visitors, had ceased: it faded around the 1980s. Today, the Municipality, together with the Pro Loco and the citizens, has chosen to revive it, focusing on rediscovering the local traditions.

Origins: From Saturnalia to the 'mmazza Carnovà' Ritual

The historical Carnival of Monterubbiano descends directly from the Roman Saturnalia, the festivals celebrated in Rome in December during which all hierarchies were overturned. The Monterubbiano ritual mirrors that of the Rex Saturnaliorum: the symbolic killing of a man called Carnevale (Carnival). This is the famous 'mmazza Carnovà ritual, the "operation," a performance where a figure dressed as a doctor, accompanied by a group of nurses, pretends to operate on a patient named Carnevale: the inevitable epilogue is that "the operation was successful, but the patient died."

Polenta on the 'Spianatora'

The most anticipated moment remains the shared polenta. It used to be spread out in the square on a long wooden table, la spianatora, and eaten with forks that everyone brought from home: a collective gesture that summarizes the convivial spirit of the feast. Among the elements that the community has recovered are also the musical group of the Elegantoni from the C. Cusopoli band, who play wearing elegant jackets paired with funny "long johns," and the Callà, a papier-mâché reproduction of the traditional polenta cooking pots, restored for the occasion. Some editions also feature flag-throwers and drummers from the Armata di Pentecoste, the town's other great tradition.

A Celebration for the Entire Community

Today, the Carnival of Monterubbiano is above all a village and family celebration: in the afternoon, musical entertainment is dedicated to children and their costumes, while in the evening, the village gathers around the table. It is a simple and genuine opportunity to experience Fat Tuesday away from the crowds of large carnivals, immersed in the atmosphere of a small village in the Marche that has chosen not to forget its roots.