What to see in Venice?
That is the easiest question to answer, as there are so many things to see. Indeed, one visit to this charming city is never enough. As a matter of fact, the Venice Carnival, Carnevale di Venezia, is worth a trip to Italy in itself. The Carnival always starts two weeks before Fat Tuesday. During this time, people will fill up the streets of Venice dressed in period costumes, certainly, one more magnificent than the other.
Of course, Venice, being one of the most beautiful cities in the world, offers magnificent views on both sides of the Grand Canal. Every year Venice repeats The Carnival. However, new events are always offered as well.
The Carnival ends on Fat Tuesday, 40 days before Easter. Feast of the Venetians “La Festa Veneziana” is usually the main event. Traditionally, musicians and dancers entertain the audience during the Feast.
The Carnival
History
The Carnival tradition goes back to the 13th century. Historically, with the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, the ancient celebration and costumes were banned. Its revival started in the 1970s and in no time became a huge success once again. Now, the Carnival days is one of the main offerings to see in Vince. Presently, it is packed with exciting events, musicians, jugglers, acrobats, and dancers. They take over the city’s main streets and squares. Magnificently, Campo San Polo turns into a beautiful skating rink.
What about the Carnival these days?
Many Venetian palaces host spectacular masked balls that rival the aristocratic galas of past centuries. Extravagantly, expect to pay up to $3000 for a ticket to some of them.
Also, on the stage erected on Piazza San Marco, twice daily, runs a contest for the best Carnival costume. invitingly, is open to anyone. Over the years, it has proven to be one of the most popular events. It is highlighted among what to see in Vince with hundreds of people strutting on the stage to show off their extraordinary finery.
What to do?
The best way to enjoy this Venetian extravaganza is to put an elaborate costume on and get into the Carnival mood.
There are many shops in the city that sell and rent historical outfits for any taste. Traditional mascarei, such as Ca’ Macanà and Tragicomica make beautiful Venetian masks. As a matter of fact, exactly like the ones that were worn by the locals hundreds of years ago.
The most popular masks are Columbine, decorated with gold, silver, crystals and feathers, Medico della peste with a long beak, and the stark white Volto.
The Flight of the Angel
One of the spectacular sights in Carnevale di Venezia is the Flight of the Angel, where around noon time a girl in an angel costume will fly along a rope from the bell tower of San Marco to the middle of the square. Of course, we cannot forget to mention this events parody, Flight of the donkey, and the significant Flight of the Lion.
Photos by: Frank Kovalchek, James Song, JP Bennett.
