Castrato refers to a male singer who was castrated before puberty to prevent his voice from changing, thereby preserving the high, pure quality of a prepubescent boy's voice. This practice was most notably prevalent in Europe from the 16th to the 18th centuries, particularly in Italy.
Castrati were often used in opera, and they could perform roles that required both male and female vocal ranges. Some famous castrato singers from history include Carlo Broschi (known as Farinelli), who was one of the most famous of his time, and who enjoyed considerable fame and prestige.
The practice of creating castrati has been widely condemned for its moral and ethical implications, and it has long since been discontinued. The last known castrato, Alessandro Moreschi, died in 1922.
Castratos are often referenced in discussions about historical music practices, opera, and the evolution of vocal performance. Their unique sound and the cultural context surrounding them reflect a fascinating and complex chapter in music history.