Los Diabletes de Teguise will receive the Canarian Gold Medal. The honour is presented to individuals and groups who have contributed to science, culture, and the well-being of the islands.
The government selection committee described Los Diabletes as “a vibrant expression of a deep-rooted tradition, in which culture and magic intertwine in a display of celebration and folklore, a product of the mixture of native beliefs, Castilian influences and witchcraft connotations that arose at the end of the 15th century “.
The Diabletes are believed to have originally derived from ancient dances performed by African slaves. More recently, they dedicate their time to making terrifying masks, scaring children, and parading at carnival. Their distinctive outfits were designed by César Manrique.
The honour will be presented in Las Palmas on Canary Day, 30th May.
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