Pezza de casce, the carnival in Vinchiaturo

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A wheel of cheese tumbles through the streets of the village

Carnival, one of the most fun and playful times of the year, is full of traditions and events. Even when it comes to games, however, things have to be done seriously. Such is the case in Vinchiaturo and its“Pezza de Casce,” a competition between two teams to roll a wheel of Parmesan cheese through the streets of the village. The first to reach the finish line wins.

It sounds easy, but there are strict rules to follow, and you also need a fair amount of physical strength at certain times and points on the course. In addition to this, you struggle amidst the jeers of the opposing team with whom, not infrequently, you squabble over different throws.

This competition, which originated more than 100 years ago, is revived every year during the carnival period. They compete, in different races, men (with a 30-kg form), women (with an 18-kg form) and, for the past few years, there has also been a specific one for children. Route and course is the same.

Starting in the vicinity of the Church of the Holy Cross, at the highest point in the village, start throwing the Parmesan cheese wheel by tumbling it along the streets. The throws must be measured and precise. One of the most heard phrases during the event, in fact, is“j’è ceca,” meaning “it is blind.” This means that when it has finished tumbling, the shape is no longer visible from the throwing point and the latter is invalid.

Another typical phrase is“Luàteve ca’ passa le casce!” (get out of the way that the cheese passes), used during many launches to make people pay attention to where the shape actually passes.

The race ends, after traversing part of the town, near the“Vinchiaturo Castle” where, with the last effort, one must place the patch on an ancient stone basula by uttering the phrase“A la ‘n ‘tutta” (it’s all here).

The winning team, in addition to the glory, wins the wheel of Parmesan cheese, which it shares with the other participants and the people who attended the event.

For those who want to, at the pezza de casce you can participate even if you are not from Vinchiaturo., Ready to take part?