The Venice Carnival is one of the most popular international festivals for tourists who come from all over the world to be amazed and astonished by this event that has historically taken place in this city.
Coming to Venice to enjoy the Venice Carnival is a once in a lifetime opportunity, because what takes place in its streets and canals is like nothing else in the world. That’s why, in this article, we’re going to tell you what this celebration is all about, its origin and why you should see it at least once.
The origin of the Venice Carnival
To find the beginnings of the Venice Carnival we must go back to the Middle Ages no less. At that time, there was one night a year when a great ball was organised, attended by the great aristocrats from different parts of Europe and the world. However, the people who attended did not want to be recognised by the people. Therefore, to avoid being noticed, the attendees began to attend in disguise, hiding their faces with characteristic masks.
But, in addition, another of the peculiarities of this unique night of the year was that the people could criticise their lords without fear and without reprisals as a consequence. In this way, the government made the citizens believe that the control exercised over them was lighter.
Regarding specifically the masks typical of the Venice Carnival, these arise from the need for anonymity that people had centuries ago, seeking to spend a few days of merriment without worrying about being seen and mingling with each other, regardless of the social class to which one belonged. The masks acquire such relevance that they are the main symbol of this carnival today.
What are the costumes like today at the Venice Carnival?
Today, in addition to the traditional masks, the participants in the Venice Carnival wear costumes that are typical of what was worn in the 16th and 17th centuries. In this way, the costumes that refer to that era are consolidated as the traditional costume of the festival for the duration of the carnival. They are costumes that express beauty but also exclusivity, sophistication and historical tradition.
If you are thinking of travelling to Venice to enjoy the most famous carnival in the world, one of the accommodations we would like to recommend is Ca’Sagredo Hotel. It is a hotel that consolidates itself as an accommodation but at the same time as a private palace, a museum and a noble residence. It is extraordinarily inclined on the banks of the Grand Canal, near the Rialto Bridge, and is housed in a 15th century palace that has been declared a National Monument and preserves the beauty of an ancient noble residence.
What do you do during the days of the carnival?
In addition to strolling the streets and gondolas in traditional costumes, there are activities that take place throughout the duration of the Venice Carnival. One of the highlights is what is known as the “flight of the angel”. Held on the first Sunday of the festival, a metal dove is traditionally launched from the bell tower of St Mark’s towards the Doge’s Palace. Today, however, it is a person who makes the descent, held by a metal cable.
Along with this, the Grand Canal of Venice takes on a very important role during the celebration, as the gondolas are filled with costumed citizens who make impressive parades through the city’s canals. They move in the same way as 16th century nobles would have done.
Another accommodation we can recommend in Venice for the carnival dates is the Ca’Pisani Hotel. This hotel was converted into a palace at the end of the 16th century. But it has also become a landmark of progress, because in its renovations it has incorporated futuristic materials and furniture from the 30s and 40s. Today, this hotel is an opportunity to enjoy another part of Venice’s culture and history, including a fantastic art collection.
When does the Venice Carnival take place?
Finally, we would like to tell you about the duration and schedule of the Venice Carnival. This festivity tends to last for about two weeks, during which you can participate in all kinds of events throughout the city, ranging from gala dinners to the masked parade or balls organised for the occasion.
In 2023, the Venice Carnival kicks off on Saturday 4 February, when the Canale di Cannaregio becomes the stage for an impressive evening spectacle. The following day the Venetian festival continues on the water with the second part including the midday water procession of the Voga alla Veneta Rowing Associations.
On Sunday, 19 February, you can watch the wonderful “Flight of the Angel”, which officially opens the Carnival of Venice with the descent of the Angel of the Carnival in St. Mark’s Square at 12 noon. After this, the festivities continue for the following week with the masquerade of the competition and the various activities that make up the carnival in general. In addition, it is possible to enjoy actors reproducing handicraft and workshop activities typical of 18th century Venice.
Finally, along with the above accommodation, we would like to recommend the Al ponte Antico Hotel. It is a fantastic property located in a carefully restored 16th century palace next to the Grand Canal, within walking distance of the Ponte Rialto. Its luxurious location combines with its relaxed atmosphere to guarantee guests the best of stays.
