Máscaras de carnaval tradicionales de Lanzarote

Discover the rich history and symbolism behind Lanzarote's most iconic carnival masks. From the ancient Diabletes of Teguise, with their horns and animal skin costumes, to the enigmatic Buches, who revive old traditions by begging for alms, these masks are the soul of the island's festivities. Explore how these cultural expressions, some with roots in the 13th century and others revived in the 20th century, reflect the identity and folklore of the Canary Island. Immerse yourself in the art and tradition of Lanzarote's carnivals through its most characteristic figures.

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  1. 1

    Devil Mask with Animal Face

    78 Global Votes

    This mask embodies the essence of the demonic and animal figures central to Lanzarote's carnivals, where participants transform into devils with horns and grotesque faces. Its design, often featuring imposing horns and a red tongue, is a direct reflection of local devil mask traditions, such as those crafted in workshops in Teguise.

  2. 2

    Bull Head Mask

    65 Global Votes

    This mask is an essential component of carnival festivities in Lanzarote, deeply rooted in local traditions. Its design, featuring prominent horns and a red tongue, reflects the island's rich cultural iconography and its connection to the bull figure, a symbol of virility and strength.

  3. 3

    Buche Mask

    62 Global Votes
    • Unique tradition of Lanzarote Carnival

      (+3)

    The Buche Mask is a distinctive symbol of the Arrecife Carnival, representing a tradition deeply rooted in Lanzarote's history. Its design and use are intrinsically linked to the attire of the 'Buches', who embody the essence of the island's traditional carnivals. This mask is fundamental to the region's cultural and festive identity, keeping an ancestral practice alive.

  4. 4

    Diablete Mask of Teguise

    0 Global Votes
    • Symbolizes strength and virility

    This mask is considered one of the most interesting of all the Canary Islands carnivals, notable for its distinctive ox design with goat horns. It represents a deeply rooted cultural tradition in Teguise, where the Diabletes are emblematic figures who chase and scare the public during festivities. Its artisanal craftsmanship, often using materials like coconut shell and paper mache, underscores its value as a piece of folk art.

  5. 5

    Mask with Horns and Cowbells

    0 Global Votes
    • Symbolized strength and virility

      (+1)

    This mask embodies the essence of the Diabletes de Teguise, an emblematic figure of Lanzarote's carnival, with its distinctive horns and cowbells. It represents an ancient tradition where participants transform into devils, parading with these elements to scare and celebrate, keeping the island's rich cultural heritage alive.

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  7. 6

    Artisanal Hide and Entrail Mask

    0 Global Votes
    • Symbolizes strength and virility

      (+1)

    This mask embodies the essence of Lanzarote's carnival traditions, utilizing organic materials like hides and entrails that evoke the island's historical roots. Its artisanal craftsmanship and connection to ancient rituals make it a symbol of the region's rich cultural heritage.

Frequently asked questions

This ranking evaluates the historical relevance, cultural authenticity, and current presence in celebrations of traditional Lanzarote masks, such as Los Diabletes de Teguise and Los Buches of Arrecife.
Users can participate by suggesting traditional masks that meet the criteria of authenticity and cultural relevance in Lanzarote. Suggestions will be reviewed for their connection to the island's carnival traditions.
The results of this ranking reflect the community's collective appreciation for the masks that best represent the tradition and spirit of Lanzarote's carnival, based on the information and context provided.
Masks in Lanzarote have diverse origins, from aboriginal rituals like in Los Diabletes of Teguise, who wore goat skins and horns, to traditions of poverty like Los Buches, where people would dress up to beg for alms.

How we built this ranking and what to consider when choosing

Our methodology for ranking traditional Lanzarote Carnival masks is based on an evaluation of their historical roots, cultural significance, and role in current festivities. We aim to highlight those expressions that best encapsulate the essence of Lanzarote's carnival.

  • The antiquity and continuity of each mask's tradition are considered, such as Los Buches documented since 1711 or Los Diabletes with origins in the mahos.
  • The authenticity of materials and design is valued, seeking fidelity to historical representations and original symbolism.
  • The active participation of the mask in contemporary Lanzarote carnivals, its visibility, and the cultural impact it generates are evaluated.
  • The historical narrative and stories associated with each mask are taken into account, such as the resurgence of Los Buches in 1963.
  • The mask must have a documented history or a strong oral tradition linking it to Lanzarote's carnivals over time.
  • It must reflect unique cultural elements of Lanzarote, either in its design, the materials used, or the customs associated with its use.
  • The mask must be recognized and celebrated by the local community as an integral part of their carnival festivities.
  • Priority will be given to masks that maintain traditional elements in their making and in the way they are presented during celebrations.