Venice Carnival: Know the History, Traditions, and Celebration at Venice Carnival

Venice Carnival, or the Carnival of Venice, is a major festival in the city of Venice, Italy. This festival has a rich historical and cultural significance in the city and has been celebrated for centuries. Held in a grand way every year, it has earned immense popularity around the globe. Those looking to witness and be a part of new and unique cultural experiences across borders will find this festival to be of great interest. Planning to visit Venice to attend this grand carnival? Find everything you need to know about the Venice Carnival on this page.

What is the Venice Carnival?

The Venice Carnival is a grand festival celebrated in the Italian city of Venice. It is an ancient celebration that is known for its use of luxurious and elaborate masks and costumes and has immense historical and cultural importance in the region. The traces of its origin are found in the Middle Ages, where it began as a celebration to mark the victory of the Venice Republic over the Patriarch of Aquileia. The carnival is seen as a time when the people of Venice can temporarily flee from social constraints and authorities and take part in fun and festivities with everyone while hiding their identities with masks and disguises. 

The carnival is usually associated with ten days leading up to Lent. So, it is supposed to end on Shrove Tuesday (Martedi Grasso), which is also the day before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday.

The Venice Carnival History

Venice Carnival History

As per the legend, the Venice Carnival is an event that began as a celebration to mark the victory of the Venetian Republic over Ulrich II, the patriarch of Aquileia, back in 1162. To honour this win, the people of Venice gathered at St. Mark’s Square (San Marco) and started to dance and celebrate. However, it was not until around the Renaissance period that the Venice Carnival became an official event. The carnival existed for many centuries until it was abolished in 1797 under the rule of Emperor Francis II, and so did the use of masks. Occasionally, people kept the essence of the festival going but in private events. Finally, the Italian Government revived this festival back in 1979 as a way to let the locals embrace their cultural heritage and promote tourism in the city. 

Since its resurrection, the festival seemed to have connected not only with the locals but also many people around the world. This is why Venice welcomes around 3 million visitors every year who come to attend the Venice Carnival. 

The unique traditions of the Venice Carnival

Marked by grand parades, masquerade balls and mask competitions, one of the key Carnival of Venice traditions lies in the association and use of masks and costumes. Mostly handmade with elaborate or simple designs, the use of disguises lets everyone enjoy the grand occasion without being held back by social constraints and strict authoritative practices. There are different types of masks worn during the Venice Carnival, some popular ones being;

1.Bauta

Bauta img black

It is one of the most iconic masks used in Venice Carnival. Traditionally white, but could also be golden or black, a mask covering the whole face with an elongated, protruding chin. It can be worn by men and women and people of all social standing.

2.Medico Della Peste

Medico Della Peste

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 It is a fantasy mask that covers the entire face and resembles the shape of a bird’s eyes and elongated beak. Historically, this type of mask was worn by doctors who used to treat people with plague in Venice between the 14th and 18th centuries.

3.Gnaga

gnaga cat Carnivale Mask

Traditionally, this mask only covers the upper half of the face and is shaped like a cat’s face with ears, whiskers and eyes. 

The celebrations at the Venice Carnival

Now that you know the Venice Carnival history and unique tradition, let’s take a look at how the festival is celebrated today;

1.Mask competitions

Mask competitions

As you know, masks and costumes are the main highlight of the Venice Carnival, so make sure to attend the official mask contest of the carnival. Entry to this competition is free and is held daily at Piazza San Marco during the carnival. Also, try not to be just a spectator by indulging in the celebration yourself. Invest in a good mask or a whole costume to blend in with the crowd.

2.Parades

One of the main attractions of the Venice Carnival is the opening parade, which takes place on boats and gondolas on the Grand Canal the weekend before. The water parade of boats is also held on the first weekend when boats sail to the Cannaregio district. Another unique parade you can attend is the Festa delle Marie.

3.Shows

 There are interesting shows held all around the city during the carnival. The light and sound show held by Arsenale di Venezia and Volo dell’Angelo at St. Mark’s Square are two of the most popular ones.

4.Balls

Another highlight of the Venice Carnival celebration is the Masquerade Balls, which are mostly private formal events where people gather wearing masks and costumes and engage in some dance and socialising. 

The most exquisite masquerades are held at the Ca Vendramin Calergi. Do note that tickets to these events can be quite pricey. Factor in the cost of masks and costumes, the prices go up significantly. Don’t worry if this is over budget; you can still enjoy the free and fun public events that happen all over the city.

Conclusion:

This concludes all you need to know about the history, traditions and celebration at the Carnival of Venice. It is a truly unique event that will give you a fun and unforgettable experience to cherish throughout life. It not only lets you witness one of Venice’s most important historical and cultural events but also be a part of the celebrations.