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The Riosucio Carnival Devil

The Riosucio devil is an example of cultural syncretism that joins elements of the Judeo-Christian devil, but is devoid of evil significance. This devil is only the guardian of the feast. The Carnival’s official website describes him very well:

A state of mind inherited from the aboriginal cultural tradition derived from the mixing of races and cultures that took place in the western part of what is today (the department of) Caldas. A spirit that inspires many things like the preparation of the ears for music and of the body for dancing. The spirit that inspires writers and poets to create verses and songs. [...] As a symbol, he is a faithful reflection of the masquerade of life. He is erected as a central figure to be burned later in playful ceremonial acts. [...] His figure changes with the passage of time and he is never an idol. He lives in the kind hearts of each inhabitant of Riosucio to make the carnival possible.