History of the Venice Carnival
The carnival in Venice originated back in the 13th century, with evidence dating from the year 1268. It was to indicate the transition period from winter into spring, whereby the people of Venice had free time before the rigidity of Lent began. With time, it became more and more popular, becoming a sign of Venetian luxury, as it was an expression of art in its own way.
In the 18th century, the Venice Carnival reached its peak and attracted aristocrats and revelers from all over Europe. It was during this period that the festival earned fame for its ornate masks and costumes, which allowed participants to disguise their identity and plunge into a world of fantasy and intrigue. In the 19th century, however, the carnival started to decline and was even forbidden by the Austrian Empire that had taken over Venice at that time. It wasn't until 1979 that the Venice Carnival was revived, and since then, it regained its status as one of the most important events in culture.
What People Usually Do
During the Venice Carnival, one can take part in many enjoyment activities with the locals of the city. A few of the events are as follows:
Masquerade Balls: These are some of the grand and glory events comprising the heart and soul of the carnival. By wearing an intricately designed mask on the face, along with clothes with opulence, the guests dance all night in historic palaces and places. A few of the most famous ones have names such as Gran Ballo delle Maschere and Il Ballo del Doge.
Street Performances: From music, theater, to dance, the streets of Venice come alive, and performers, wonderfully dressed, entertain big crowds with traditional commedia dell'arte, acrobatic feats, and music performances.
Regattas and Parades: While beautiful boats adorn the Grand Canal for spectacular regattas, the parade makes its way along narrow city streets in an eye-catching display of fabulous costumes and energy-filled music.
Mask-Making Workshops: mask-making workshops will teach visitors the art of making their own Venetian masks. This is hands-on activity and, at the same time, a closer look into the craftsmanship in creating the most iconic accessory for the carnival.
Traditional Customs
The Venice Carnival enjoys a lot of traditional customs passed down the generations. Of them, a few are listed below:
Wearing Masks: The use of masks is perhaps what identifies and characterizes the Venice Carnival. Masks allowed people to hide their identity, and this created a sense of equality and liberty for all participants. Today, masks range from the simplest and most elegant design to the most intricate works of art.
The Flight of the Angel: This 16th-century tradition officially inaugurates the carnival. A performer-a celebrity or local figure-flies across from the Campanile di San Marco to the middle of the Piazza San Marco against the applause of cheering crowds below.
Festa delle Marie: This is an ancient procession, which commemorates the rescue of twelve maidens who had been kidnapped by the pirates of the city. Nowadays, twelve young ladies are "elected" for the representation of the "Marias" and are escorted all around town in great style.
Visitor's Tips
In order to make your Venice Carnival visit worthy, here are some recommendations:
Book your Venice stay in advance because it will get crowded during the carnival.
Appropriate Attire: Masks and costumes are not compulsorily required, but putting them on will add to the fun and make you participate in the event fully.
Plan an Agenda: As several events and various activities are running, it is always good to design an itinerary beforehand so that the major ones are not missed.
Conclusion
This is a carnival where art, culture, and tradition merge into one mesmerizing display in the hearts of its attendees. From its rich history to its exuberant customs, this festival is an experience that is unique and once in a lifetime.
Be it attending masquerade balls wearing masks or being astonished at performances held on the street, Carnival in Venice is fully embodying the spirit of this city. Plan your visit to this enchanted festival and start discovering a fantastical world that will offer you the fascinating experience awaiting you at the Venice Carnival.