The origins of Carnival date back over 2000 years. It is celebrated mainly in countries of Christian culture, but its origin has nothing to do with Christianity. Carnival days are the celebration of madness and wild parties, where everything seems to be allowed. They are also the days when anyone can be mocked. Heads of state, kings, famous people, it is allowed to make fun of all of them.
One of the elements that unite the celebration of Carnival is the use of masks and bright and transgressive costumes.
In different parts of the world the madness of carnival is interpreted differently. Some of these events are very famous, and are visited by tens of thousands of people, who often travel just to be part of the event.
Venice is no exception. Its Carnival is one of the most visited in the world, with over 100 thousand visitors a day during the last two weeks of the carnival.
This year too I couldn’t miss it. For my visit I chose a Monday, certainly the day when there is less confusion, so that I could take some photos without being literally blocked by the crowd that during the weekend makes it difficult even to walk.
In Venice, Carnival is everywhere, and from the train station to the most remote corners of the city you can find people wearing elaborate masks and costumes. Some of these are true works of art, and require many days of work to prepare them.
But of course not everyone has the time and money for such an elaborate costume. For this reason, in Venice there are numerous commercial activities that allow you not only to buy but also to rent Carnival costumes. Some are real shops, while others are temporary businesses that appear in the main squares of Venice during Carnival. In Campo Santo Stefano there is a real street market where you can rent masks and costumes.
The main destination for everyone is Piazza San Marco, where you can admire the most elaborate masks and costumes. But the whole city is a continuous parade of costumes and colors.
And in truth, to participate you don’t need an expensive costume, the most important thing is to be creative and have fun.
Do you celebrate Carnival in your country?
Why don’t you tell us about it here and maybe share some photos?
