Carnevale in Venezia – 2013

This year, the Carnival of Venice, or Carnevale, was held from January 26 – February 12. About three million people participated in the festivities. While Venice is such a popular destination any time of year, the few weeks before lent offer something extra special.

My friends Mario and Marco, who just returned from an amazing trip, were fortunate enough to be among those participating in the 2013 festivities. Although the weather included some flooding and snow, none were deterred. The amazing pictures that follow were taken by their friends Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro.

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro.

The word for masks in Italian is maschere, and in Venice, some of the most popular ones include the Bauta, a mask that covers the entire face; the Columbina, a half-face mask that is either tied in back or held by hand with a baton; and the Medico della Peste, meaning The Plague Doctor, symbolized by a long beak.

Photo: Anthony Guida andRaffaella Spilotro

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

Masks are abundant in the shops in Venice. They are made by hand by Mascherari and have long played a part in Venetian culture and history.

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

A panel of international costume and fashion designers shared the task of selecting “La Maschera piu bella”  – the most beautiful mask.

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

Hard to pick a favorite – they are all so beautiful.

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

And just in case you have the itch, next year’s dates are February 15-March 4. Be sure to make your reservations early and remember to rent your costume in advance.

Photo: Anthony Guida and Raffaella Spilotro

See you there…well, I can hope too!

Grazie molto Marco, Mario, Anthony and Raffaella for sharing these incredible photographs! And many thanks to the Venetians for putting on such a remarkable show!

Ciao,

Judy