Carnival of Venice is an annual festival held every year in Venice, Italy which officially started during Renaissance. This year it was held from 15th February – March 4, 2014. The festival is known for its elaborate masks and various cultural activities. It ends with the celebration of Lent. It is said that the Carnival of Venice was started from a victory of the “Serenissima Repubblica” against the Patriarch of Aquileia, Ulrico di Treven in the year 1162. In the honor of this victory, the people started to dance and make reunions in San Marco Square.
After a long absence, the festival was launched again in the nineteenth century by the Italian government to restore the history and culture of Venice. Today more than three thousand tourists flock to Venice every year to witness this festival. A key attraction to the event is the elaborate costumes and the contest of ‘la maschera più bella’ – the most beautiful mask, which is revealed on the last weekend of the carnival.
Masks are a key feature at the carnival. Venetian masks are made in any sort of material, leather, porcelain, papier-mâché or original Murano glass, characterized by the Vetro Artistico® Murano trademark . Carnival of Venice is straight out of a fairy tale. The festival is for those who want to witness fantastic masks, costumes and parties, all in an incredible stage – the Serenissima.
The history of hiding behind masks ages old. In the 13th century, a law was passed which banned wearing masks while gambling and it was later extended to wearing masks to convents or religious festivals as well.
In 1979 the Italian government re-introduced the carnival with the hope to restore the culture of Venice and to attract tourists.
The carnival has activities for all – young and the adults. The activities range from theatre, music, exhibitions of photography and art and activities for children. There are also secret itineraries to keep you mysterious and curious.
The parties at the carnival take you back to the 18th century. These parties are organized at 600 year old palaces, at St. Marks Palace, etc.
If you missed the carnival this year, plan the visit for next year. For more information, visit: https://carnevale.venezia.it/