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The Gilles
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The Gilles
The Gilles are the oldest and principal participants in the Carnival of Binche in Belgium. They go out on Shrove Tuesday from 4 am until late hours and dance to traditional songs. Their traditional outfits are seen here. Date: 1925
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Media ID 32251804
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Carnival Festivities Gilles Niche Outfits Participants Principle Shrove Tuesday
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This photograph, taken in 1925, showcases the principal participants of the ancient and renowned Carnival of Binche in Belgium, known as the Gilles. The Gilles are the oldest and most significant figures in this vibrant and traditional celebration, which takes place on Shrove Tuesday. Their dedication to the festivities begins at the break of dawn and continues late into the night. The Gilles are easily recognizable by their distinctive outfits, which consist of a red smock, white trousers, a white apron, a red sash, a white hood adorned with bells, and a wooden mask. These costumes have remained unchanged for centuries, adding to the rich historical significance of the Carnival of Binche. As the sun rises on Shrove Tuesday, the Gilles gather in the town square, their faces hidden behind their masks. They dance to the rhythm of traditional songs, their bells jingling in unison, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The festivities continue throughout the day, with the Gilles parading through the streets of Binche, engaging in lively exchanges with the crowd and throwing oranges and pears to onlookers. This photograph is a testament to the enduring tradition and the passionate commitment of the Gilles to the Carnival of Binche. Their dedication to preserving the customs and costumes of their ancestors ensures that this unique and captivating celebration continues to thrive, attracting visitors from around the world.
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