On Saturday 28 October, the Cultural Association of the Portuguese of Lorraine organized its annual evening in Diapason, in Oukang, with a large place dedicated to folklore. This year, the “Cabeçudos (Big Heads) Maria and Antonio” were officially introduced, an integral part of the traditional percussion group Os Tugas Bombos (created in 2012).
“Cabeçudos or Gigantones” are large heads/giants, made of paper/cardboard in the image of a man or woman, which are displayed during carnivals or processions throughout Portugal; Especially in the north of the country. It seems that the tradition was born on the 13th H Century in Portugal in Alenquer. At the end of the fourteenth centuryH century, the first giant figures appear in Antwerp (Belgium); It was probably imported by Portuguese traders.
The five “Cabeçudos” (4 meters high), accompanied by Os Togas Bombos musicians, danced and mesmerized the audience present. Then there was a tasting of typical dishes (bacalhau or carne alentejana…). The association hopes that these “gigantons” will be able to parade in the cities of the region during various events.
