The secrets of the Barranquilla Carnival that weren't told, according to AI

The Barranquilla Carnival is a highly recognized celebration in Colombia and one of the most vibrant on the planet. It's a historic and traditional event, so there are many stories that are probably unknown, and that's why ChatGPT decided to share them. What are those secrets?

The artificial intelligence-based tool revealed four interesting facts about one of the events taking place in the capital of the Atlántico department: 1. Carnival doesn't start in February. While the most representative event begins in February or March, the reality is that January is the kick-off period with the Reading of the Proclamation, precisely the moment when the order is given to start dancing. (See more: It's already confirmed: this will be the price of the Metro fare in Bogotá.) 2. The role of the Carnival Queen is very important. Often considered merely a decorative figure, she plays a representative role in the organization: "She actively participates in rehearsals, social visits, and represents the city on various national and international stages. Her preparation begins almost a year beforehand," the AI ​​added. 3. This historic carnival has European, indigenous, and African roots. The cultural mix is ​​evident. At this grand event, various types of dances can be appreciated, expressing the resistance of indigenous communities and enslaved peoples. This argument was declared Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. 4- The costumes also aim to convey a message between the lines. Satire also plays a significant role in the Barranquilla Carnival. The most recognizable characters have a political background or even criticize society.

What is the origin of the Barranquilla Carnival?

The Carnival website detailed that its origins lie on Spanish soil. “ That's where its spirit of renewal and change comes from , similar to that which animated these festivities in Europe,” they noted. “The first Carnival celebrated in the city is lost in history more than a century ago, when Barranquilla was a small town. However, various stories have circulated about how the people of Barranquilla celebrated Carnival; their always naive, graceful, festive, and above all, healthy way of celebrating Carnival has allowed the preservation of a tradition that dates back three centuries,” they added. (See more: Scare them away from your home: what smell do cockroaches hate?) Thus, these commemorations were introduced to the continent by the Portuguese and Spanish. In Colombia, during the colonial era, these types of events were held in Cartagena.

"The traditional novena of La Candelaria, in Cartagena de Indias, served as the setting for sumptuous dances that, in the 18th century, celebrated the Black Bozales brought from Africa. These celebrations are the source of the main dances of the Barranquilla Carnival," they noted.