Ansamblul ,,calusarii Slatinei``-calusul -

The is a premier folk ensemble from Slatina, Olt County, dedicated to preserving the Călușul , an ancient Romanian ritual dance recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage . This group is a central pillar of the annual "Călușul Românesc" festival, which brings together thousands of dancers to celebrate this solar, healing, and fertility rite. 1. Origins and Symbolic Meaning

: Dancers wear embroidered shirts, white trousers, and colorful hats. Small bells ( clopoței ) are tied to their legs to create rhythmic jingling during the dance.

: Performances are typically backed by traditional instruments like the violin and accordion. 4. Major Events in Slatina

The ensemble's performances reflect the strict traditional hierarchy and rules of the Călușari:

: Traditionally, the dancers were believed to possess magical healing powers, visiting houses during the Rusalii (Pentecost) period to bring health and prosperity. 2. The Ritual Structure

: A central ritual element often adorned with garlic and wormwood to ward off evil spirits. 3. Choreography and Attire

: Dancers wear embroidered shirts, white trousers, and colorful hats. Small bells ( clopoței ) are tied to their legs to create rhythmic jingling during the dance.

: Performances are typically backed by traditional instruments like the violin and accordion. 4. Major Events in Slatina

The ensemble's performances reflect the strict traditional hierarchy and rules of the Călușari:

: Traditionally, the dancers were believed to possess magical healing powers, visiting houses during the Rusalii (Pentecost) period to bring health and prosperity. 2. The Ritual Structure

: A central ritual element often adorned with garlic and wormwood to ward off evil spirits. 3. Choreography and Attire