Diablada Oruro Carnival

Bright, funny, and unforgettable Diablada Oruro Carnival is one of the three best and oldest carnivals in Latin America. Residents of Bolivia think that it is the most important event in the country. People start to prepare for it right after the previous carnival.

The history of Diablada started even before the Europeans came to Latin America. That time, the Ura people lived here. They have an ancient tradition to celebrate the Ito holiday, dedicated to the mother goddess. In the 17th century, the Spaniards prohibited all Indian rituals. So, the locals turned their pagan holiday to a feast in honor of the Virgin Mary. That was a wise idea of preserving traditions and giving them a new life. 

As a rule, the carnival begins before Lent and lasts 10 days. Its peak is a festive procession. Sometimes, it continues 20 hours because many people want to take part in it. Every year, the feast has more than 10 thousand musicians, 30 thousand dancers, 400 thousand spectators. And this is far from the record level. 

 The most important event of the carnival is Danza de Diablos. These are the devils' dances symbolizing the inevitable victory of Good over Evil. The beauty of costumes is breathtaking! Every year they differ a lot because it is bad form to repeat. And the city has several clubs specializing in carnival costumes just for Danza de Diablos. Masters create true masterpieces that attract spectators.

When Danza de Diablos finishes, a long procession goes to Iglesia del Socavon. A religious service is holding there in token of gratitude for a good year and an opportunity to celebrate such a great holiday.