Podence (Macedo de Cavaleiros)

Podence is a village (freguesia) located in the municipality of Macedo de Cavaleiros, in the district of Bragança, Portugal. It is part of the Trás-os-Montes region. Podence is best known for its traditional Carnival celebrations, specifically the masked figures known as "Caretos de Podence". These figures are central to the village's cultural identity and attract visitors annually. The Caretos are characterized by their colourful, striped costumes, tin masks, and bells, and they playfully harass and interact with the villagers, particularly young women, as part of the pre-Lenten festivities. The tradition has its roots in pagan rituals and fertility rites, although its exact origins are uncertain. The Caretos de Podence are recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.