The origin of Venice carnival, which is particularly heartfelt both by locals and by tourists, dates back centuries: the first document in which the term carnival is explicitly used and connected to the idea of public entertainment was written in 1094, while the first official edict asserting that Carnival was to be considered a public holiday was written in 1296. In that period it was probably necessary for the Serenissima republic to give its citizens, in particular to the lowest classes, the possibility to have fun and to celebrate, and wearing masks was not only synonym with amusement, but it was also a way to destroy all differences and social classes, thanks to the anonymity that people gained through masks. Masks production thus became a real form of art, and the job of mascariere was officially acknowledged in 1436 (and Venice is still well-known for its masks shops). Carnival celebrations, which in the beginning lasted 6 weeks, marked also the following centuries, and the golden period of Venice Carnival arrived in the 18th century, when it became a well-known event also in the surrounding countries. However, towards the end of the century, after Napoleon's occupation, carnival celebrations stopped, and they began again only in 1979.

Since then Venice Carnival has become more and more important, it has gained an international appeal and it has become an attraction both for adults and for children. This year celebrations, which will start on February 14th and end on February 24th, will take place in all the city's sestieri, each of those will be connected to one of the five senses: San Polo to sight, Dorsoduro to hearing, Santa Croce to smell, Cannareggio to taste and Castello to touch, while San Marco's area will be linked to the sixth sense, i.e. intellect. All the city will therefore be invaded by masks and cheerful people, and visitors will be offered a programme of events that has never been as rich as this year, and that includes music and dance shows, performances of acrobats and buskers of international renown, as well as workshops for children and food stalls (grab the chance to taste some Venetian delicatessen, like frittelle), but also terrific masked balls and parties organised in fascinating locations. Although we live in 2009, the most ancient carnival traditions will not miss, and some of the most awaited events are the Flight of the Angel (or Flight of the Dove), first held in the 16th century, and the Feast of Mary, the recollection of a historical event that took place in 943, which is characterised by a procession led by flag-wavers, musicians and12 local girls, among whom the most beautiful one is elected.

Venice carnival is a good mix of ancient traditions and modern entertainment, appreciated both by children and by adults; it is characterised by a cheerful atmosphere and by wonderful masks that have no equal in the world. It is for all these reasons that for centuries carnival has been identified with Venice.

During carnival the city is overcrowded with tourists: to be sure to find accommodation book now a cheap hotel in Venice.

Date: 14th 24th February 2009

Location: Venice, Italy