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 swear an oath of brotherhood and chastity for the duration of the ritual (traditionally nine days).
: The leader who holds the knowledge of magic charms ( descântece ) and complex dance steps.
: Started in Slatina in 1969 , this festival now involves a major parade in Slatina followed by performances in Caracal.
The "Călușarii Slatinei" are known for high-energy execution and technical precision:
To see the ensemble in its most authentic context, visitors should target the season: