The Carnival of Foiano della Chiana is the oldest Carnival in Italy and takes place every year during the months of February and March. It is considered one of the most important Carnivals in the country, thanks to its spectacular choreography and a deeply rooted historical tradition.

I am particularly fond of this event because it is the festival of my hometown, and I also take part in the masquerade of one of the four districts. However, I want to remain impartial… so I won’t tell you which one! 😉

When the Foiano floats were first created, they were not made of papier-mâché and were not intended to represent allegories. They were simple village carriages on which some citizens would ride, throwing generous handfuls of lupins, chestnuts, and salted cod to the crowd. Over time, the Carnival ritual evolved into a more modern and irreverent celebration, featuring grand allegorical floats inspired by current events, politics, cinema, and popular imagination.

The Carnival of Foiano della Chiana most likely has its roots in medieval propitiatory rites. One of its most symbolic moments is the Burning of Giocondo, the King of Carnival, represented by a rag-and-straw effigy and considered a ritual of purification. Before Giocondo is burned in the main square, tradition calls for the reading of the “Testament,” a satirical account of the most noteworthy events of the past year, followed by a symbolic funeral marking the end of winter.

The town of Foiano della Chiana is divided into four Districts, which compete each year to win the coveted trophy by creating impressive papier-mâché floats and lively masked parades. The districts are called Azzurri, Bombolo, Nottambuli, and Rustici, and they work throughout the year to bring this joyful celebration to life.

The floats are built by true masters of papier-mâché alongside mechanical technicians. In accordance with strict regulations, they can reach impressive dimensions: up to 17 meters in length, 10 meters in width, and 13 meters in height.

For more details about the Carnival of Foiano della Chiana, please visit the official website:
CARNEVALE DI FOIANO

Here you can find our accommodation suggestions in Foiano della Chiana

Photo from the web site Carnevale di Foiano