Cape Verde, an archipelago known for its diverse culture and rich traditions, boasts a unique celebration known as "Tabanca." This cultural phenomenon is a celebration of patron saints, vibrant processions, and a strong sense of community. Today, we invite you to embark on a journey to discover the captivating world of Tabanca and explore its intricate rituals and festivities.
Preparation and Anticipation
The Tabanca festivities are not just a one-day event; they are a culmination of weeks of preparations and anticipation that build up to the celebration of the Patron Saint of the group. Whether it's in the bustling city of Praia, on the scenic Santiago Island, or in the tranquil Porto Inglês of Maio Island, each community brings its unique flavor to this celebration.
In the City of Praia
In Praia, preparations start several weeks before the Patron Saint's day. This involves fundraising from public and private entities and within the community. These funds are used for various aspects of the celebration, from buying decorative elements for the court's decoration to renewing musical instruments and acquiring food for communal meals. The attire for the group is also prepared, and a debt to the queen or king di gazadju is settled.
A week before the Patron Saint's day, the festivities kick off with a ceremonial salute at the group's chapel, a sacred ceremony filled with drumming, kisses, and dance. This is followed by the presentation and dance of the flag, the chanting of the litany, and the unmistakable Tabanca rhythm. The celebrations continue with batuku music through the night.
On Santiago Island
In the interior of Santiago Island, groups initiate their preparations a few days before their Patron Saint's day with a meeting among members, presided over by the group's king. Decisions are made regarding the use of funds raised by the group, ensuring the festivities' success.
As the Patron Saint's day approaches, members decorate the court, and streets are adorned in the locality where the tabanca procession will pass. The group slaughters animals for the festival, while women prepare food and gather kitchen utensils. They cook soup for those present, and the batuque celebration continues until dawn.
Santa Cruz on Maio Island
In Porto Inglês, on Maio Island, the celebrations revolve around Santa Cruz, occurring on the 3rd of May. The local Tabanca Djarmai group seeks contributions a month before the feast. People offer what they can, and all contributions are considered equal.
Before the festival day, a meeting is held with the queen and king of Tabanca Djarmai. The queen sends a rocket into the sky, followed by the king, signifying the beginning of the festivities. A sacred ceremony takes place, led by the local parish priest, and judges for the next year are announced. The festivities continue with "kotxida," which involves grinding corn, drums, and songs by female singers. Animals are slaughtered, and a feast is shared.
The Day of the Patron Saint
On the day of the Patron Saint in Praia, thieves and captives attend a morning mass. Thieves attempt to steal the saint, and the flag is lowered to half-mast if successful. The group then engages in a ritual to capture the flag or the king or queen of the court. The day concludes with food, drinks, and festivities.
On Santiago Island, the day starts with a morning mass, followed by a batuque dance that continues until dawn. The following day, the group organizes an outing outside the locality, visiting relatives and friends of the Patron Saint. They return with offerings for the group's fund.
On Maio Island
The day of Santa Cruz features a morning mass at the main church, followed by a procession to a cross in Salina. The procession includes prayer leaders, faithful, and Tabanca groups. After the sacred ceremony, the groups celebrate with food and drinks at the festival judge's house.
The festivities continue with the recitation of the rosary, followed by the distribution of cachupa and chicken stew with rice. A few days later, the final ceremony, known as "xinta cruz," takes place, symbolizing the end of the festivities. The wooden cross is carried to the house of the person guarding it, and the figurines are sent to various localities. The return of the figurines marks the preparations for the next Santa Cruz festival.
A Vibrant Tapestry of Tradition
Tabanca is more than just a festival; it's a vibrant tapestry of tradition, spirituality, and community. It brings together the people of Cape Verde to celebrate their history, identity, and faith. These elaborate rituals and festivities paint a vivid picture of Cape Verdean culture, and they showcase the unique connection between the people and their Patron Saints.
These traditions, whether celebrated in the city of Praia, Santiago Island, or Maio Island, offer a glimpse into the heart of Cape Verdean culture. They tell stories of faith, community, and the enduring spirit of a people bonded by tradition and unity.
As you explore the enchanting archipelago of Cape Verde, be sure to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Tabanca, a cultural heritage that continues to thrive and inspire the generations of today.
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