CURIOSITIES ABOUT THE ITALIAN CARNIVAL

Music, dances, colorful masks, etc. If you like to have fun this is the perfect place, we bring you the best curiosities about the Italian carnival.

In the Middle Ages during the Lent period, all the theaters were closed. The jesters and actors tried to take advantage of the Carnival period. They tried to collect as much money as possible and thus survive the period when the theaters were closed.

In Europe there are many places where Carnival is celebrated and one of them is Italy, of course! In fact, each region of Italy has its own traditions and typical sweets. Chiacchiere, zeppole, struffoli, castagnole, cicerchiata and many other delicacies! Just thinking about it makes you hungry!

HOW CARNIVAL IS CELEBRATED

The Italian carnival has been celebrated for centuries during the month of February: it is an ancient festival characterized by masked parties, parades with colorful floats, theatrical performances, musical or magic shows and typical sweets.

ORIGINS OF THE ITALIAN CARNIVAL

The origins of this festival are still not very clear. Someone claims that the roots of the carnival derive from the celebrations held by the ancient Romans called Saturnalia. During this feast, the social roles between masters and servants changed and the value of social hierarchies was abandoned. Others think that Carnival has its origin in the celebrations of the ancient Greeks in which the god Dionysus was worshipped.

THE MOST FAMOUS CARNIVALS IN ITALY

Among the most ancient Carnivals in Italy we can find the Carnival of Venice and the Carnival of Fano. The first evidence of the Carnival of Venice dates back to 1296 while the Carnival of Fano is mentioned in documents dating back to 1347.

Among the most famous Carnivals, known in Europe, are also the Ambrosian Carnival of Milan, discover all its magic and book youraccommodation in Milan.

The Carnival of Viareggio known for its colorful floats and the Historical Carnival of Ivrea during which you can attend the representation in the square of the Battle of the Oranges.

THE MASKS

The Italian Carnival is distinguished by its typical theatrical "masks". There are all kinds of masks, both regional and traditional, each with its own humor. Each has recognizable characteristics, such as Harlequin and Pulcinella, two of the most famous characters.

TYPICAL SWEETS

Each region and numerous cities in Italy have their own typical characteristics and traditional sweets to prepare for Carnival. Among the most famous desserts we find chiacchiere, also known as frappe or bugie. It is a very classic dessert, obtained by thinly rolling a dough, which is then fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Other delicious typical sweets are Carnival fritters, castagnole and strufoli. 

Without a doubt the carnival is a unique experience, which we recommend 100%. If you want to get to know it and soak up the traditional Italian culture, you will need a good accommodation! Here are the best options foraccommodation in Italy