Carnival of Mamoida Italy

The highlight of the celebration is the parade of the Mamuthones and Issohadores. The Mamuthones wear black wooden masks, heavy sheepskins and cowbells, moving slowly and rhythmically, while the Issohadores wear bright red jackets and white masks, dancing energetically alongside them. The Issohadores also symbolically capture townspeople with a rope called a "soha", a gesture believed to bring good fortune and fertility.

Traditional Sardinian folk music accompanies the procession, often featuring pipe instruments called "launeddas", which add a lively and festive atmosphere to the event. The costumes and accessories are handcrafted and passed down through generations, preserving the community’s cultural identity and ancestral heritage.

Local youth play an active role in the preparations and costume-making, helping to strengthen the connection between generations and reinforce the sense of community and cultural pride.