Il Brenta racconta: storia, arte, cultura, moda.

Why is Venice’s Carnival so famous?

 

The spectacles and pageantry of the Venice Carnival are world-renowned, but non-Venetians are sometimes confused about why the carnival is celebrated in such an extravagant way.

Venice began celebrating the carnival in 1162 when the Republic of Serenissima's Republic won against the Patriarch of Aquileia. St. Mark's Square was filled with jubilation as all of the people of Venice gathered to celebrate their victory. At first, the victory was celebrated in the streets of Venice; however, as time went on, it became just a happy excuse to spend whole days dancing and having fun.

In the 17th century, Venice was at its peak of glory, and the Baroque Carnival represented the prestigious image of Venice internationally. Until the 18th century, before its abolishment, the Carnival was a time when people would be free to indulge in different forms of entertainment, from masquerade balls and street performances to public games.

It was customary to create costumes and elaborate Venetian masks, allowing people to strip from their everyday personas and engage in activities considered socially unacceptable during the rest of the year. During those ten days, the city was under a libertine spell where social hierarchies were temporarily suspended, and individuals could interact more freely without inhibitions.

The Carnival was outlawed in 1797 while the city was under the rule of Francis II, the Holy Roman Emperor, and Venice’s tradition of masks was also banned at the time. It reappeared slowly and gradually in the 19th century, mainly for private, expensive parties serving as a backdrop for great artistic creation and display. In 1979, the government decided to make the traditional Carnival the centerpiece in raising awareness of the eccentric history and culture of the city of Venice.


Carnival Masks

Traditionally, people were allowed to wear Venetian masks from December 26th until Shrove Tuesday, which signified the end of the Carnival season. Throughout the year, there were other periods when it was permitted to wear masks, making it possible for people to spend a fair part of the year in disguise. During the carnival, the activities of the Venetians shifted; a lot of their time was spent in celebrations and performances in the corners of the city.

Maskmakers (mascherari) enjoyed a unique position in Venetian society. They had their own laws and their own guild. The original masks were simple and designed for symbolic and practical functions. Nowadays, masks are made with the application of gesso and gold leaf, to be later hand-painted
and decorated with feathers and gems




Traditional Venetian Sweet Treats during the Carnival

Frittelle: Delightful, deep-fried doughnuts stuffed with different types of fillings for all tastebuds! Sometimes with raisins, pine nuts, and a hint of citrus zest. They're often dusted with sugar and are a staple of the Carnival season.


Galani or Crostoli: Thin, crispy pastry strips, dusted with powdered sugar. The perfect balance of crunchiness and delicate sweetness.
The cultural significance of Venice's Carnival


The Venice Carnival is important due to its cultural significance. It has been a way to celebrate life before Lent and honor the Venetian Republic’s unique history and culture. The Carnival was the ultimate symbol of an ahead-of-its-time perspective on freedom and pleasure.


Venice Carnival 2025: The Doge’s Ball and Exclusive Events Not to Miss

Experience The Doge’s Ball at Venice Carnival 2025! A night of glamour, live shows, and an extraordinary masquerade gala in a stunning historical setting.

Venice Carnival Official Dinner Show 2025: A Unique and Exclusive Experience

Experience the elegance and enchantment of the Venice Carnival Official Dinner Show 2025, featuring a lavish gala dinner, mesmerizing performances, and an exclusive masquerade atmosphere.

Venice's Carnival 2025 - 300 Years since Casanova

The Venice Carnival 2025 celebrates the 300th anniversary of the birth of Giacomo Casanova with a calendar full of masquerades and exclusive parties, including art, culture and entertainment.