La Villa de Teguise have a traditional costume known as the little devils of Teguise (Los Diabletes).
The costume dates back to the 15th century and was then the representation of the devil incarnated as a he-goat which symbolised fertility. The shepherds used to perform the dance on several dates in December but especially on New Years Eve. The costume was made from the skin of a goat that had been tanned, the shepherd was paid to perform and that tradition has been continued by the town council, they have a budget for the costume and performers.
Rosalia, the wife of Dr Alfonso Spínola was responsible for updating the costume from a he-goat to the bull face still used today. The suit is no longer made from goat skin but canvas painted with red and black diamonds and covered with bells so that the devil jangles when he dances. The mask was created by Eliseo Diaz and many a person has been scared when confronted with Los Diabletes. Children shake with fear and hide behind their parents at carnaval when these devils suddenly single someone out and shake their stick at them. You can see the “Danza de los Diabletes” at the Teguise Carnaval each year.
Here are a couple of other articles that you may find of interest……..
You can see a selection of carnaval photos from Lanzarote in 2009 in our nightlife gallery.
A list of great tapas bars and restaurants in Teguise.
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