Carnival

The Venice Carnival is a world-famous event that we suggest you attend at least once, to experience first-hand what is perhaps the most heartfelt, and undoubtedly the most colorful celebration of the year. It is an essential tradition that has enlivened the Venetian winter for centuries, in a period always between February and March.

The first references to the Carnival are ancient and date back to 1094, the year in which the Doge Vitale Falier referred to public celebrations in a document using the term Carnival. It was officially declared a public holiday at a later time, more precisely in an edict of 1296, when the Senate of the Republic decreed the day before Lent a holiday. It is believed that the institution of this festive period was born from the desire to grant citizens, especially those of the lower classes, a period of concessions and relief. In other words, it served to balance bad moods and tensions, which were very frequent at the time.

Masks

The tradition of wearing a mask during Carnival was a direct consequence of the reason why the celebration was announced. Masks and disguises allowed for anonymity, allowing for a sort of social leveling that put an end, at least temporarily, to many tensions that persisted between different classes and religions.

The tradition is still alive today and Carnival is still experienced, at least ideally, as a carefree period during which to give vent to freedom and creativity, without worrying about the judgment of others, criticism and gossip. Venice is thus transformed into a large stage where each person is free to play the character they most identify with.

The creation of masks and disguises thus became one of the most famous arts in the city, news of which reaches us as early as the year 1271. Even today, walking through the streets, the windows of some artisan workshops will enchant you.