The Tragic History of the Castrati: The Italian Boys Who Were Castrated to Preserve Their High Singing Voices
In the 16th century, the Vatican implemented a ban prohibiting women from singing in church choirs. However, the desire for high singing voices remained, leading choirs throughout Italy to adopt an alternative solution: employing castrati. These were young boys who had undergone castration before reaching puberty. By removing their testicles, the procedure prevented their voices from deepening during adolescence, allowing them to retain their high-pitched singing voices into adulthood.
While the castrati possessed unique vocal abilities highly prized in the music world, their lives were marked by significant hardships. Castration resulted in a lack of testosterone production, which led to various adverse effects on their bodies. The castrati often experienced abnormal bone growth, osteoporosis, and a propensity for depression.
Some fortunate castrati managed to achieve fame and fortune thanks to their exceptional voices, securing prestigious positions in renowned choirs and opera houses. However, the majority of castrati lived in poverty and obscurity throughout their lives. Many faced immense challenges and struggles, both due to the physical consequences of the castration procedure and the social stigma associated with their condition. This often led to a tragic existence until their eventual death.
