January is usually gloomy and dull in Venice until the Venice Carnival begins. The city is filled with color from the splendid costumes.
Carnival was first celebrated in the 11th century. During the Renaissance, it became an official event. At that time, Italians eagerly awaited each festival because they could use masks to hide their identities and escape the strict class system of the time.
During the two weeks, St. Mark's Square, theaters, streets and public buildings become a stage for actors, circus performers, dancers, musicians… making people feel like they are living in the 17th century.
Masks are the most distinctive feature of the Venetian carnival. Mask makers also had their own respected place in society, with their own guilds and rules.
Not all of Venice Carnival is about beauty and frivolity. Traditionally, the festival begins with the 'Battle of the Rats', in which a giant model rat leads a flotilla of brightly decorated boats along Venice's Grand Canal.
Ngoc Anh (According to Dailymail)
