Venice Carnival Brings Out the Masks, Regattas and Revelry
Time for grand costume balls, fierce mask contests, towering wigs
and a parade of preening, strutting revelers as city residents and visitors from around the world take part in its annual carnival.
Throngs of visitors from places like South Korea and the United States have already arrived for the festivities,
but the pre-Lenten festival is celebrated throughout Italy.
The tradition of the mask started in the 13th century, when Venetians held parties
before the start of Lent and wore elaborate masks to conceal their identity.
Others will follow, and the season it will end on Shrove Tuesday (Fat Tuesday or Martedì Grasso), the day before Ash Wednesday.
Traditionally, 12 young women were chosen to represent the city, commemorating the rescue of Venetian brides-to-be from pirates centuries ago.
By the 18th century, masks were banned outside during carnival time because they were abused by Venetian gamblers and prostitutes seeking anonymity.