Outings and excursions · Montevideo
Candombe: the drums of Montevideo
Photos: Jimmy Baikovicius / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2009, candombe beats in the streets of the Sur, Palermo and Cordón neighbourhoods.
The llamadas
On Sundays and many holidays, the drum calls (llamadas) move through the Sur, Palermo and Cordón neighbourhoods in southern Montevideo. It all begins around a fire where the drums are tuned; then the group (cuerda) takes to the street, led by drummers from the most respected families, while neighbours and dancers walk alongside or watch from balconies.
The three drums
- Chico: the smallest and highest, keeps time.
- Repique: the medium one, improvises and converses.
- Piano: the largest and deepest; its beat identifies each neighbourhood.
How to experience it
Hearing a drum group on a Sunday afternoon in Barrio Sur or Palermo is one of the city's most authentic experiences. During carnival, the Desfile de Llamadas brings the comparsas together in a great parade.
Tips
- Follow from the pavement and respect the group's route.
- Dates for the Desfile de Llamadas are announced each year: check before you travel.
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