Venice – ‘Venezia’ in Italian – is the beautiful city located in northeast Italy, famous for its intricate transport system of interconnected canals, it’s art, architecture and culture. It has been described as ‘the most beautiful city built by man’ and one of Europe’s most romantic cities. A perfect setting for any magical break. One of the most famous attractions of the ‘City of Bridges’ is the ancient and intriguing celebration called the ‘Carnevale di Venezia’ which was recently held from the 27th January till the 13th February 2018.
The Carnival of Venice (Carnevale di Venezia) is one of the oldest festivals held in Venice, Italy. The festival is world famous for its amazing masquerade balls and unique masks that worn during this event. It’s a huge celebration that goes on for two weeks. While many events, particularly the opulent masquerade balls, require invitations and have steep ticket prices, many others, like the candle-lit parade of boats, concerts, and street performances, are free and open to the public.
Origin
It is understood that the ‘Carnevale’ originated as a result of the, 40 days of Lent, when the indulgence of foods (like meat, sugar and fats) and parties are not allowed. People would try to get rid of all their rich food and enjoy festivities before Lent. Hence, the word ‘Carnival’ which comes from the Latin words ‘carne’ and ‘vale’, meaning “farewell to meat”. According to tradition, Venice’s Carnival got its start in 1162, when townspeople celebrated a victory over the Patriarch of Aquileia.
The Masks
The tradition of masking has a long standing in Venice. There is little evidence explaining the motive for the earliest mask wearing in Venice however, one scholar argues that covering the face in public was a uniquely Venetian response to one of the most rigid class hierarchies in European history. They were worn in public on a daily basis until its ban in 1268. In the 18th century, Venetians were allowed to wear masks again but for only 3 months a year. Several distinct styles of elaborate masks are worn in the Venice Carnival, some with identifying names. People with different occupations wore different masks.
Carnival Balls and Parties
Ca’ Vendramin Official Carnival Ball
This is the official Carnival dinner and show held at the majestic Ca’ vendramin Calergi palace with its splendid Renaissance rooms overlooking the Grand Canal. Guests enter a magical dimension where each detail has been taken care of, rendering an unforgettable Carnival experience with performances among the tables.
Carnival Opera and Dinner
An elegant candlelit Venetian dinner set in the historical Grand Palazzo Hotel Gabrielli. A delicious 4 course dinner is served while a variety of artists, acrobats and opera singers entertain guests during the evening.
Carnival Grand Ball Gala Dinner & Show
Avanspettacolo is one of the most exclusive Gala Dinners and shows in a dreamlike location. The event is an outburst of sets, costumes, lights and colours in a sensory journey among different times with traditional Venetian dances and a Grand Magic Show.
Casanova Carnival Ball – The Pleasure Garden
Casanova leads you through a magical journey of discovery, game and love in their most varied facets. Held in the picturesque courtyard of the noble Venetian Palace Ca’. Animators and dancers involve guests in the overwhelming magical adventure the evening promises to be.
Mascheranda Grand Ball
One of the most important events of Venice Carnival 2018, the Mascheranda Grand ball takes place in the Palazzo Pisani Moretta, an elegant candlelit palace overlooking the Grand Canal. The evening commences with a mysterious aperitif and performance by professional artists in magnificent costumes. Guests are then ushered upstairs to the Noble floor where they can enjoy a traditional Venetian evening of food and entertainment with live classical music and ‘Commedia del ‘Arte’ performances.
Venice Carnival Party Cruise
The Galleon sails toward the north part of the lagoon along the islands of Murano, Burano, Torcello, offering a charming panoramic view. While on board, guests delight in the Great Carnival buffet with all the specialties prepared with care by the Chef on board. After dinner, the cruise heads towards Venice to toast in front of Saint Mark’s Square, captured by the elegant magic of the most ancient Carnival of the world. On board, the party continues with carnival trumpets, frittelle, streamers and galani.
From private and exclusive paid events to public events such as the Traditional Mask Market to the Mestre Carnival Street Show, there is a large variety of overwhelming splendour to explore in Venice over this period.
*If you want to experience the lavish Venetian Carnival yourself which we highly suggest you should, please do contact us for bespoke packages that meet your personal tastes and requirements.
Author: Nadia Valente da Silva
