The carnival of Venice is one of the world’s most fascinating events. And after more than 900 years it is still able to exert its charm and a veil of mystery. The term carnival was used for the first time in a text written by Doge Vitale Falier in 1094, in which he speaks of public entertainment and celebrations.
In the lagoon city, the carnival became a public holiday only in 1296, when the Senate of the Republic of Venice declared the last day of Lent a festivity. Although the duration of the celebrations has changed over time — in the past the festivities could last up to six weeks, while today they last for about ten days — the charm of the carnival permeates the city of Venice throughout the year.
