Entroido of Cobres
Ladies and gentlemen in their finery
The dance of Cobres is a colourful spectacle with dances in the streets and squares.
On the shores of the San Simón inlet, a rite that dates back to the 18th century is kept alive, reflecting the importance of passing on traditions from generation to generation. The spirit of the residents of the municipality of Vilaboa has not let the famous Entroido de Cobres, declared a Festivity of Tourist Interest in Galicia in 1999, die out.
In the area known as Cobres, formed by the two small parishes of San Adrián and Santa Cristina, one of the most colourful celebrations in the province of Pontevedra still survives. According to writings of the time, it was traditionally called Antroido dos Cobres, but its origin is still unclear.
Madamas" and "galanes" take the party from house to house, in an event that has in the traditional Corrida do Galo one of its highlights.
It is believed that, as a symbol of wealth and social position, wealthy families would dress up during the days of the carnival to go around the area. Single people would proudly wear their costumes and represent their families. These are the famous characters known as "madamas" and "galanes" who, year after year, fill the parishes of Santa Cristina and Santo Adrán, in Vilaboa, with colour and rhythm. With dances, music and the popular "Danza dos Cobres" they go from house to house carrying the fiesta. Normally they make a donation to be able to continue with the festivities, and the more generous the donation, the more the merriment!
In the Entroido de Cobres there is a representation of the different social classes and this is mainly evident in the costumes. Thus, first there are the"villagers", humble workers dressed in different trades; then there are"those in white", who wear simple clothes, with fewer colours and beads; and finally, at the head of the group, there are the "madams" and "gallants", dressed with total neatness, with white clothes covered with lace, coloured ribbons, beads, jewellery, etc. Their large, colourfulhandmade hat stands out, with its colours, glitter and flowers making it the centre of attention. The hat weighs between 6 and 8 kilos, and at least half a year's work goes into keeping it as colourful as it is.
During the festival days, from Saturday to Tuesday, you can see brass bands and traditional music groups from As Rías Baixas. On the last day, one of the most awaited moments takes place: the traditional Corrida do Galo, a series of popular games in the square of the Riomaior cultural centre. The day ends with the appearance of the "preacher", a character who does not reveal his identity and who criticises the events that have taken place in the area during the year.
Vilaboa is the southern entrance to the region of O Morrazo from the provincial capital and the Vigo and Pontevedra estuaries surround this peninsula where carnival is present in every corner. In As Rías Baixas you can experience great stories and unforgettable moments.
