Traditional Masks, Transylvania

The traditional masks of Romania have been around since pagan times.  Part of the New Year festivities they welcome the changing of the season and symbolize the renewal of the year.

They also ward off negative energies.  There’s a loose saying: “in order to scare off the ugly, you must be uglier than it”.  As such, the masks are meant to be as ugly as possible in order to drive away the evil spirits.