DE CONGOS Y DIABLOS
A photo essay by María Fernanda González
The Festival of Diablos and Congos is a celebration of the folklore of the province of Colon. The dances have very old African roots. The Congos of Portobelo today are the descendants of the cimarrones, hence, the festival is a powerful manifestation of true Afro-Panamanian culture.
The diablos, chosen by each community, are costumed with elaborate outfits and masks. In a theatrical fashion, the congos fight the devil who is said to be loose or unleashed during the carnival. At the end they are saved by the “Reina Conga”, queen of the congos, helped by the “Pajarito”, little bird, and “Juan Dios”, John God.The Festival of Diablos and Congos is a celebration of the folklore of the province of Colon.
The dances have very old African roots. The Congos of Portobelo today are the descendants of the cimarrones, hence, the festival is a powerful manifestation of true Afro-Panamanian culture. The diablos, chosen by each community, are costumed with elaborate outfits and masks. In a theatrical fashion, the congos fight the devil who is said to be loose or unleashed during the carnival. At the end they are saved by the “Reina Conga”, queen of the congos, helped by the “Pajarito”, little bird, and “Juan Dios”, John God.
Prints of this project are available upon request.
