The Carneval of Venice

Venice is always unique, but during Carneval it is even more so! So once again in 2012, from 11 February to Shrove Tuesday, the alleys and streets of the city will be full of period costumes and masks and it will be possible to just watch or to join in the fun! During carneval, it is possible to hire eighteenth century costumes (not necessarily original!), hair, wigs, cloaks and other accessories, have one’s face made up in Piazza San Marco or in other areas of the city or even buy a mask, made to measure there and there by artisans who take an imprint of your face.
The Carneval of Venice has been a melting pot of tradition, culture, fun and transgression for many centuries. The first record dating to 1094 is a document by the Doge Vitale Falier. The real institution of the festival, however, dates to the period of the Most Serene Republic (the Republic of Venice), when the population was officially granted several days to be dedicated exclusively to having fun; in those days venetians and outsiders alike filled the city and celebrated with music and dance.
The tradition continues to this day. During the first Sunday of Carneval the “Festa delle Marie” is celebrated to commemorate an ancient legend; while to set off the festivities, the “Flight of the Angel” takes place at midday: a famous female person, secured to a metal cable, descends from the top of the bell tower in San Mark’s Square and remains suspended in mid-air above the cheering crowd.
Typical cakes during this period are a variety of fritters: Galani; Frittelle, with a filling of cream, “zabaione” (whipped egg-white and port), or raisins and pine nuts (the so-called “veneziane”); Castagnole.

For further information

Website: www.carnevale.venezia.it

Tourist Office (APT) in Venice
Tourist Office in Venezia Castello
Tel. +39 041 5298711
E-mail: info@turismovenezia.it