Its origins lie in propitiatory rituals, particularly those of the cult of the earth and transhumance, enriched later by sacred symbolism through the worship of Saint Anthony Abbot, protector of animals. In San Mauro, the Campanaccio Festival precedes that of Carnival, transforming the village, within a few days, into a theater where sacred and profane merge in a rich marriage of suggestions and nuances. The carnival celebrations that take place in many Lucanian municipalities constitute an important piece of the precious mosaic of traditions that make Basilicata a culturally diverse land. Its location in the heart of Southern Italy has historically made it a crossroads of various currents and influences, which over time have amalgamated to give rise to entirely original forms of identity expression.