An alluring festival that pulls in thousands of spectators; a tradition that casts its spell on whoever crosses its path; a gala that celebrates the spirit of humans is none other than the Venice Carnival. Escape from the mundane everyday life and get drowned in the fantasy of this amazing festival!
Women sashaying in exquisite gowns and men clad in clever disguises, Venice Carnival provided the perfect scenery for passionate love affairs in the 18th century. Recreating those days is not only for fun but rejoices in the lure of forbidden.
In old-world days, people donned masks even when there was no carnival. The mysterious Venetian carnival masks offered a way for libertines to poke fun at the elite, sensualists to seduce innocent women, gamblers to engage in promiscuous activities without ever being caught. Rakish uses of masks spread like wildfire, forcing the government to issue endless restrictive laws.
Finally in 1608, the Venetian Council passed on an act that insists on wearing masks only at the Carnival, dinner parties, significant events and celebrations. Besides, masks were the solution for perfect disguise. Wearing masks let married women to mingle with male crowds without revealing their true identities. Mask-wearing created a sense of pseudo-equality among civilians. No one could segregate the rich from the poor during carnivals in Italy. Venetian Carnival masks played a significant role in the life of the world-famous womanizer, Casanova.
On the other hand, the real reason behind the birth of the Venice Carnival is breaking-free from the cultural norms and regulations. This major Venice tourist attraction still symbolizes freedom in physical, mental and spiritual senses.
Artisans who made Venetian Carnival masks are called ‘Mascareri’ and their assistants are ‘Targheri’. Venetian masks are made from clay molds. Craftsmen start by putting clay inside a wooden box with the model mask and overturn the plaster. This procedure results in a hollow plaster which will later be covered paper mache and adorned with intricate details. Mask-making requires undivided attention, patience and skills. There are so many types of masks such as Bauta, Larva, Moretta, Mute, Zanni, Pulcinella, Baroque and many more.
To take part in the vibrant and exhilarating Venice Carnival, plan your trip to Venice with Perillo Tours and ItalyVacations.com
