New Year’s Eve is one of the most anticipated nights, a moment of celebration that marks the transition to the new year. In Molise, and in particular in Gambatesa, this night is enriched by a unique tradition: the “maitunate”, improvised stornelli sung house by house to recall events of the past year, often with ironic and satirical tones.
The origins of the maitunate date back to ancient times, even to classical theater and the Phoenicians. In Gambatesa, the first written records date back to 1570, when the local University asked the Count for permission to sing and play during New Year’s Eve. Since then, the tradition has consolidated to become an event of great attraction.
On the evening of December 31, the town comes to life. A tent is set up in the square for those who want to dine in company, while a stage hosts one of the most characteristic shows of the year. Several teams of musicians and singers walk through the streets, stopping in front of houses to sing their rhyming stornelli. Traditional instruments, such as accordions, bufù, wind instruments and ancient percussion instruments (rattles, triccheballacche, strgulator), accompany the performances, creating a festive and engaging atmosphere.
The maitunate can be funny, ironic or biting. Some recount family events, others good-naturedly make fun of the most prominent figures in the town. For one night only, there is a sort of “immunity” that allows the singers to express criticism and jokes without consequences, although in the past some posthumous revenge has not been lacking.
The night proceeds with singing, laughter and toasts, with a break at midnight to celebrate the new year. The party continues until the afternoon of January 1st, when the teams perform on the main stage and the winner of the competition is announced.
The maitunate are not only a moment of fun, but also an expression of popular culture and social denunciation. Their importance is today safeguarded by the Cultural Association “I Maitunat”, formed by young people from Gambate committed to keeping the tradition alive and sharing it with an ever-wider audience. Thus, year after year, the maitunate continue to be the symbol of a unique New Year’s Eve, capable of uniting history, music and community in a timeless celebration.