Maragojipe, Brazil, Feb 11 (EFE).- The Maragojipe Carnival, in the Brazilian state of Bahia, defied the intense rains in the region to take the flamenco spirit into the streets on Sunday.
A group of revelers participates in the Maragojipe carnival celebration, in Maragojipe, Brazil, 11 February 2024. EFE/ Rafael Martins
The Mulheres Sacramento bloc, from regional capital Salvador, traveled 133 kilometers to the city to bring flamenco and Andalusian culture to one of the most deeply rooted Afro-Brazilian carnivals in the country.
‘Españolas’ with fans, scarves, long skirts and decorations joined the traditional costumes and masks of the carnival and the African spirit that characterizes the some of the country’s most traditional celebrations in Maragojipe.
After the torrential downpour that hit Maragojipe throughout the morning, people took to the streets of the city of 44,000 people for the height of its carnival celebrations, which is traditionally on Sunday.
Revelers participate in the Maragojipe carnival celebration, in Maragojipe, Brazil, 11 February 2024. EFE/ Rafael Martins
The origins of the carnival date back to the end of the 19th century, parallel to the golden age of carnival throughout Bahia, in northeastern Brazil.
In the 1920s, the Maragojipe Carnival increased the ‘cordones’ (small troupes) that included women and joined the carnival peñas and the Dois de Julho Philharmonic competition.
In 2009, the festival became Intangible Heritage of Bahia for its tradition and diversity marked by the so-called Folia Quilombo, which brings together Afro-Brazilian manifestations.
The Brazilian Carnival began on Friday and will run until noon on Ash Wednesday throughout the country. EFE
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