Carnevale Di Venezia is probably one of the most famous carnivals in the world! Beautiful costumes and Venetian masks create a magical atmosphere.

The Venice Carnival is an annual festival like Mardi Gras held each year in Venice, Italy and is famous for the elaborate masks and costumes. The Carnival ends with the celebration of Lent, forty days before Easter, the day before Ash Wednesday.  This year it runs from Saturday, January 27th thru Tuesday, February 13th, 2018.

This tradition started way back in 1162 to celebrate a victory of the Venice Republic. It became an official celebration during the Renaissance.  After a long drought the Carnival was reborn in 1979.

Carnevale masks

Masks were always an important part of the Venetian festival.  They vary greatly in design and can be made from porcelain, glass, leather, gesso and gold leaf.  Many are hand painted and employ feathers and jewels!

The Grand Canal from The Rialto Bridge

Did you miss the blog on Asiago located high in the mountains above Venice and Vicenza? Here is a link: Asiago