The Maitunats' of Gambatesa

On the evening of Dec. 31, the streets of Gambatesa are invaded by groups of players, led by a cantor, who recite an improvised poetic composition based on four endecasyllabic verses, accompanied by the sound of ancient instruments, such as accordions, accordions and buffoos. The entire town is in celebration of "Le Maitunat'" a centuries-old Gambatesa tradition. Singers go to the homes of the town's most prominent people, such as the mayor, as well as those most active in daily life, such as barbers, bartenders, etc., and sing their vices and virtues. Each "maitunat'" is improvised and is therefore unique and an expression of the entire community. The singing lasts for a few hours and then begins again in the early afternoon of the next day, when the teams compete on a stage and the best is awarded the "Golden Rattler."