The History of the Roman Carnival: A Tradition Born in the Middle Ages
The origins of the Roman Carnival date back to the Middle Ages, but it was during the 15th century, under Pope Paul II Barbo (1464–1471), that it gained great importance. As a Venetian pope, Paul II brought a new sense of festivity to Rome, choosing the area around Palazzo Venezia and Via Lata (now Via del Corso) as the main stage for the celebrations.
One of the most famous events was the Corsa dei Berberi (Berber Horse Race), where Berber horses raced from Piazza del Popolo to Piazza Venezia. The race ended at a now-disappeared street called Via della Ripresa dei Barberi, near Palazzo Venezia.
The Corsa dei Berberi: The Heart of the Roman Carnival
The Berber Horse Race became the highlight of the Roman Carnival, attracting crowds along Via del Corso. This race, featuring riderless Berber horses, symbolized the excitement and grandeur of the celebrations, turning the streets of Rome into a festive spectacle.
The Festival of Moccoletti: A Night of Light, Masks, and Mischief
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Festival of Moccoletti was celebrated on the last day of Carnival, Shrove Tuesday. As the sun set over Via del Corso, a massive candlelit game unfolded.
To participate, people had to wear masks and carry a candle or lantern, called a “moccoletto.” The goal was to keep your own candle lit while trying to extinguish others’. Those whose candles went out had to remove their masks, exposing their identities.
First held in 1773, the Festival of Moccoletti was the most symbolic and ritualistic part of the Roman Carnival. Under the cover of darkness and flickering torchlight, social rules loosened, leading to pranks, romantic betrayals, thefts, and even stabbings. For a single night, class distinctions blurred, and the city surrendered to the chaos and magic of Carnival.
