A castrato is a male singer who was castrated before puberty to prevent his voice from deepening. This practice was most common in Europe from the 16th to the 18th centuries, particularly in Italy. Castrati were valued for their unique vocal range, which combined the power of a male voice with the higher pitch of a female voice, allowing them to perform complex operatic roles. Castrati often achieved fame and success in the world of classical music, especially in opera. Notable castrati included singers like Farinelli and Senesino, who captivated audiences with their extraordinary vocal abilities. The practice of creating castrati has since been abolished due to ethical concerns.