A journey into the heart of Salento’s folk music
Every summer, Salento comes alive with the electrifying rhythm of the Night of the Taranta, the festival dedicated to pizzica and traditional music that attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. This extraordinary event, founded in 1998, celebrates the folk traditions of Southern Italy, turning town squares and villages into a stage of energy, dance, and culture. Let’s explore the history of this festival, the meaning of pizzica, and tips on how to best experience it.
The origins of the Night of the Taranta
The Night of the Taranta is much more than just a concert; it is a journey into Salento’s past, between myth and reality. The festival was created to promote pizzica, a traditional dance linked to the phenomenon of tarantism, an ancient healing ritual believed to cure the bite of the tarantula through music and dance.
- Tarantism: Until the 20th century, it was believed that the bite of the “taranta” spider caused states of trance and agitation, which could only be exorcized through pizzica music.
- Pizzica: A fast and energetic dance, performed to the sound of tambourines and other traditional instruments.
From a healing ritual, pizzica has evolved into a symbol of festivity and cultural identity in Salento, giving birth to one of Europe’s most significant music festivals.
Locations and schedule
The festival is not just a single event but a traveling festival that takes place in different villages across Salento, culminating in a grand final concert in Melpignano.
- The Traveling Festival: Lasts about two weeks, stopping in towns such as Lecce, Galatina, Nardò, and Sternatia.
- The Grand Finale: Held in Melpignano in late August, featuring international musicians and tens of thousands of spectators.
Each year, the festival features special guests and renowned artistic directors, blending pizzica with diverse musical genres, from rock to jazz.
How to experience the Night of the Taranta
If you want to enjoy the Night of the Taranta to the fullest, here are some practical tips:
- Arrive early: The final concert attracts over 100,000 people, so getting there in the afternoon ensures a good spot.
- Wear comfortable clothes: Dancing pizzica is an intense activity, so dress lightly and wear comfortable shoes.
- Learn about pizzica before the event: Attend a dance class or watch live performances in Salento’s villages to embrace the atmosphere.
- Enjoy the local food: During the festival, you can taste specialties like puccia, pasticciotto, and Negroamaro wine, one of Salento’s most famous wines.
The magic of pizzica: between dance and tradition
Pizzica is more than just a dance—it’s a profound expression of Salento’s soul. Today, it is performed in pairs or circles, with fast and engaging movements. You can experience pizzica not only at the Night of the Taranta but also at smaller events in local villages, such as the San Rocco Festival in Torrepaduli, where the dance takes on a symbolic duel form.
A must-see event for music and culture lovers
Attending the Night of the Taranta means immersing yourself in a festival that bridges the past and present, music and tradition. If you’re looking for a unique experience in the heart of Salento, this event is the perfect opportunity to discover the magic of pizzica and let yourself be carried away by the captivating rhythm of the tambourines.
