Parma has been around since Pre-Etruscan times, and was already an established area in the Bronze Age. The Roman colony was founded in 183BC, together with Modena. It has had a turbulent history, being occupied and destroyed many times before the latest damage the city suffered during the German occupation from 1943 to 1945, when several monuments were damaged by the Allied bombardment. However, Parma was relatively lucky to escape without widespread devastation and there are still a great number of monuments to be seen today. The city is also home to the oldest university in the world!

Parma, Emilia-Romagna, Italy by spaceodissey

Parma and Architecture.

If you are fond of Art, Architecture and Culture, this is the city for you, and you will need at least 2-3 days to see all there is to admire, and also visit the world-famous opera house, the Teatro Regio. This is the home of Verdi and Toscanini, and opera lovers flock here to hear their favourites; the Opera season runs from about April to December, with a festival in October.

There is a lot of Art to be seen, if you keep reading this article you will find out all the Parma tourist attractions! The best place to start would probably be the Pilotta Palace in the historical centre of the town. This Palace now houses some of the most important collections in the city, including the National Gallery where you can see artwork by Correggio, Parmigianino, Leonardo, Tintoretto, van Dyck and many others. While you are there also visit the Bodoni Museum, home to everything to do with Printing and then move on to the Palatine Library to see amazing collections of old books. The Pilotta Palace also houses the Archaeological Museum, worth a visit if you are interested in old artifacts.

Pilotta Palace, Parma, Italy by Herbert Ortner

Next on your list should be the Piazza Duomo, where you can visit the 12th century Romanesque Cathedral, filled with renaissance art. Entrance is free and you can visit from 9 – 12.30 and 3 – 7 pm. Be sure to see the Assumption by Correggio in the central cupola.

After viewing the Duomo, walk to the close-by Baptistery, a combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles, and home to several frescoes dating from the 13th and 14th centuries.

There is another great art collection to be seen at the Court Villa of Mamiano where works by Rubens, Tizano, Goya, Monet, etc can be viewed.

Enough about the culture…I am sure you get the picture! Parma also offers great shopping! If you like antiques, head for the Borgo Nazario Sauro, a small winding road near the centre, where you can explore one antique dealer after the next. This is a great place to find something special to take home.

Duomo, Parma, Italy by Tommaso Meli

Parma and gourmet food.

Parma is known all over the world for its most famous exports, namely Prosciutto di Parma (Parma Ham) and Parmigiano Reggiano (Real Parmesan Cheese), and you really must try both of these and even take some home, but Parma also has several other gastronomic specialities that you should try, so look out for some of the following on restaurant menus: Anolini in Brodo – this is a dish of little pasta parcels filled with beef, Parmesan, poached in a delicious broth; it is a speciality of the town! Also try Tortelli di Erbetta, pasta filled with ricotta, Parmesan and spinach – quite delicious and good for vegetarians.

If you want to try your hand at some Parmesan cookery when you go home try and find the book: “Parma – A Capital of Italian Gastronomy” by Guilano Bugliali – it is fully of wonderful local recipes.

It is possible to go on a tour to see how Parma Ham and Parmesan are made, and you should not miss this experience to round off your visit to the city.

Emilia Delizia is a dedicated writer about food tourism in Italy.

Parmiggiano Reggiano by Kelly Hau

The post Parma: The Culture Capital Of Emilia Romagna | Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

Trevi fountain, Rome, Italy / Photo by admin

Children have special needs and expectations, and they have to be at least partly satisfied otherwise the vacation can turn into torture for everybody present. What can be interesting for you will probably be no big deal for the little ones and the opposite – children enjoy things in which you see no sense.

Rome – the capital of Italy – is one great destination for visiting. There is almost no one in Europe and in the world that will not love to see this old and beautiful city. And the best part of the offer is that is as interesting for the children as it is for you with its numerous ruins and long stories about the past battles.

The Coliseum should be the first place to start with. It is one major monument, significant part of which is kept till today. Being one of the major buildings in the ancient Rome, it is still keeping the central position in the modern life of the capital. The Coliseum is situated in the heart of the city on the right bank of the river, crossing it, which is Tiber. This is good because you will not wander too much until you find it. It is almost fifty meters high so it is easily seen from most parts of the city. The children will love to jump in the wholes, where were the old corridors of the Coliseum or up and down the tribunes, forming very good for playing stairs.

Coloseum, Rome, Italy / Photo by admin

The next stop can be the Fountain di Trevi – one unique piece of architecture. It is situated in the center of the city as well and is considered to be one of the most romantic places in the planet. It may bring you back to the memories of the beginning of your life as family and wake-up sweet memories for great moments in your life. It is interesting with the combination of details and ornaments in its architecture. The original time of its building is going back to the Baroque times.

Saint Peter’s Square – the republic in the republic – this in one part of Rome which will leave both you and your children with wide open eyes and mouth. On the way to the incredible Vatican you can do some shopping or stop at the numerous restaurants and bars for a rest. The city of the Pope inside will offer many nice spots for observing like the statues of the saints, with you will see wherever you look. St. Patrick’s Basilica is one point of interest inside the square which deserves special attention. Leave some time to visit the Vatican museum, which is situated just adjacent to the Basilica.

Saint Peter’s Square, Rome, Italy / Photo by admin

Last children can see the ruins of the Roman forum. It is close to the Coliseum and the complex of the forum consists of several smaller and bigger monuments. Former center of the political life of the city, today this is a venue for long walks, observation and endless games for the kids, who can run up and down and hide in the numerous places, which will seem good for this purpose.

Article has been written by https://travelfromto.com/category/adventure/

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Consider Venice

If there is a city you should not miss when in Italy, it’s Venice! Mixing up at one of Piazza San Marco cafes for a foretaste of Venice’s design as well as the sea is the first thing to do before you go ahead to Basilica San Marco, Rialto Bridge and the Doge’s Palace. If you are an art lover, head straight to Peggy Guggenheim Collection to see some contemporary paintings from the 20th century. Wrap it up with a Gondola ride or go to a famous Carnevale, if you will be in Italy in February.

Streets in Venice, Italy / Photo by admin

What about Milan?

What do you know about Milan? Are you aware of the fact that it is the home of the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, the Duomo of Milan? Not interested in cathedrals? Then you should be in a park or in a museum, such as Castello Sforzesco, to see ancient musical instruments, or the city’s famous archaeology museum, which is filled with artifacts from the pre-historical era. La Scala Opera House and Museum is not only a tribute to Opera, but it is also a formidable piece of architecture. Daily guided tours in many languages are offered.

… And the capital city, Rome?

When in Rome, you will have an opportunity to see the many beautiful monuments, old ruins, and historic architecture, which are what so many are fascinated by. Also, do not forget to pay a visit a Vatican – the Pope’s residence has much to offer and you are sure to be impressed with some artistic works by Michelangelo.

License: Image author owned

Florence is a big shopping deal

When looking for a fine shopping experience in Europe, Florence is the destination. Pick exquisite leather goods, jewelry, paper goods and almost any souvenir that comes to your mind. But Florence is not just about shopping – the famous Uffizi Gallery is a home of numerous renowned paintings by renaissance greats. The city’s cathedral is a notable sight, as well.

Tuscany

Nearby Florence lies in the beautiful region of Tuscany, the place of astonishing country lifestyle. Tuscany is the place to go if you love wine and simple but nice cuisine. It is considered to be one of the best places for honeymooners. Enjoy walking along mountain paths, visit Siena, Pisa, San Gimignano, Arezzo and Lucca. Tuscany also offers a very suitable accommodation option: the villas in Tuscany are famous for excellent service and fair pricing.

Jillian Johnson is a professional marketing content writer who blogs on a variety of topics. Follow her @MissWritey.

The post Visiting Italy? Here are 5 Places You Must Visit! appeared first on Europe Explored.

Val Camonica stretches for almost 90 kilometres, and scattered over hundreds of locations on both sides of this expansive valley are the world’s greatest collections of prehistoric rock drawings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site gives us artistic insight into the culture, pastimes, and interests of the ancient world.

Val Camonica valley, Lombardy, Italy by Bernat Erasmus

The Great Gallery

The Valley lays claim to the most extensive collection of prehistoric petroglyphs on Earth; a rather impressive trophy for a rural region in the Alpine mountains of Italy!

It would seem that the inhabitants of this particular region, for reasons unknown, were intent on documentation and expression through the rock-based art-form. It is recorded that over 140,000 symbols and figures are carved into the Valley’s rocks. This staggering number is thought to have been achieved over a period of 8,000 years, and although UNESCO has formally recognised the previous number of incisions, it is thought that new discoveries raise the total somewhere between 250,000 and 300,000

Subjects of Superstition

The artistic works depict many different themes and subjects, providing an invaluable insight into the thoughts and minds of our creative ancestors.

The subjects of the rock drawings are diverse, and themes give us a glimpse into early agriculture, maps and constellations, as well as mysticism, war and magic! These early drawings are an unprecedented documentation of beliefs, traditions and triumphs.

In some cases, the figures and drawings seem to have been placed with no obvious order or logic, while others have a definite connection.

Visitors can see the showcase of impressive scenes of vibrant dances, historical hunts, ferocious fights, and mystical masterpieces that depict religious rites and ceremonies. These drawings seem to commemorate the culture of times past, however some of them are rather bizarre. The stranger drawings in this vast collection, through archaeologists’ analysis, have been described as less of documentation, and more an expression of ideas and early human thoughts.

Rock drawings, Val Camonica valley, Lombardy, Italy by Bernat Erasmus

A Piece of History

The history of the petroglyphs spans an extra-ordinate amount of time, and many different periods are documented. Making such a discovery would be any historian or archaeologist’s dream!

The first incisions give us a snapshot of a time long before even the Iron Age. While they give us extraordinary pictures of prehistoric customs, the drawings continue throughout history, and even into the modern day! It is thought the custom of rock drawing in this region carried over from generation to generation, even through the Roman and Medieval periods. Interestingly, most of the drawings have been created using similar techniques, even though the tools must have changed somewhat over the timeline.

One amazing scene shows one of the valley’s tribes initiating new females, at a time when they began to meet new people. Their isolation seems to end around 1000 BC, and it was at this time that their art was at its peak. Many battle scenes were carved during this period, and although the tribe was introduced to other members of society – their introductions appear to be rarely friendly!

Conclusion

If any one location has earned its place as a site worthy of world heritage, it is this one.

There is an unparalleled span of ancient and intricate artwork found throughout the rock drawings in Val Camonica. Thousands of people from the world over have already enjoyed this once in a lifetime experience, and have witnessed the site for themselves. Why not count yourself as one of them, and visit the amazing site today?

Author Bio:

An article by Matt Scott who loves writing UNESCO travel articles and anything Italian. If you need to hire a rental car for your trip to the Val Camonica region visit the comparecarrentals.co.uk car rental comparison search engine.

The post UNESCO World Heritage Site: Rock Drawings In Val Camonica | Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

1) Florence

The capitol of the Tuscany region, Florence is one of the top destinations in all of Italy. U.S. News Travel rated the city based on the value, food offerings, atmosphere, and overall experience and awarded Florence a five out of five in all categories. There is a rich architectural history in Firenze, but there is so much more to do and see than just pretty buildings. While in Florence, be sure to check out the Duomo, the Galleria dell’Accademia, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Boboli Gardens—don’t forget all of the local shops and restaurants as well!

Florence, Tuscany, Italy by Chris Yunker

2) Siena

Scoring just behind Florence in the best places to visit in Tuscany is the city of Siena. The U.S. News Travel report gave it an overall score of 4.6 having scored a five in value and a 4.5 in each food offerings and atmosphere. When visiting Siena you will get a whole different experience than in a city such as Florence as it is the quintessential example of the Gothic era, as can be seen when taking in the sites of the area’s buildings and architecture. Some of the major attractions you won’t want to miss out on include: the Piazza del Campo, the Torre del Mangia, Museale di Santa Maria della Scala, and the Siena Cathedral.

Siena, Tuscany, Italy by Lars Magne Sunnanå

3) Cinque Terre

For the more adventurous and outdoorsy visitors, a trip to Cinque Terre is a must. It is not just one town, but rather a group of towns that lie along high cliffs that overlooks the Liguarian Sea. This beautiful pairing of villages has been protected from mass development as it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as a national park. Once you secure one of the beautiful Tuscany villas in the area be sure to come here to experience the hiking, beaches, and boat tours.

Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy by Richard Kelland

No matter where you choose to spend your Tuscany vacation—whether you are experiencing just one city or the entire region—be sure to take full advantage of the wonderful sites, delicious food, and rich culture of one of Italy’s most popular regions.

Stephen Craig is a part of an elite team of writers who have contributed to hundreds of blogs and news sites. Follow him @SCraigSEO.

The post Grande Italia: Experience the Best of the Tuscany Region appeared first on Europe Explored.

The Keyhole of the Priorato di Malta

A keyhole might not sound terribly interesting, but the one in the arch-headed central portone of the Villa of the Priorato di Malta in Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta is well worth a look.  Peer through it and you’ll get a perfectly framed view of the dome of San Pietro, an effect seemingly intended by the architect, Piranesi.

St. Peter’s Basilica seen through a keyhole at the Villa Malta, Rome, Italy by AngMoKio

Centrale Montemartini

If you like your culture uncrowded, Rome can be a difficult place to be.  Not if you visit the Centrale Montemartini, however.  Here, you can wander around, unimpeded by camera-toting tourists in an ingenious exhibition space in the former Giovanni Montemartini Thermoelectric Centre, a remarkable example of industrial archaeology converted into a museum.  Closed Mondays.

The Porta Portese Market

The Porta Portese, near the end of Viale Trastevere, is a classic Roman flea market where you can pick up bargains in everything from jewellery to pottery, and kitchen implements to bicycles.  The market takes place every Sunday from 6.30 a.m., but you’ll have to get there early to snap up the best deals.

Porta Portese, Rome, Italy by Lalupa

Villa Doria Pamphili

It is one of life’s unsolved mysteries why tour groups do not flock to the Villa Doria Pamphili, but it is fortunate for us that they don’t because this delightful oasis in the Monteverde quarter of Rome is largely overlooked.  Stroll freely through Its French-styled garden (the largest landscaped public park in the city) among sparkling fountains and quirky statues and admire the enormous 17th-century villa.

Chiesa di Dio Padre Misericordioso

Even the biggest fan of religious buildings could suffer church fatigue in Rome, as it’s impossible to go far without stumbling into yet another flamboyantly ornate place of worship.  The Chiesa di Dio Padre Misericordioso is not your ordinary church, though.  Situated on Piazza Largo Terzo Millennio, it features three massive sail-like arches and a whimsical bell tower that certainly do not fit the usual ecclesiastical stereotype.  Visit at sunset, when the light floods the massive windows of this unforgettable landmark.

Municipal Rose Gardens

If you’re in Rome during May and June, and you’re struck by an incredible perfume emanating from Viale del Circo Massimo, you’ve found Rome’s Municipal Rose Garden (Roseto Comunale di Roma).  Home to more than 1,000 varieties from over 20 different countries, the Rose Garden makes a comforting stop after a visit to the historically brutal Coliseum nearby.  Look out for the the green-petaled Chinensis Virdiflora and the stinky Rosa Foetida.

Municipal Rose Gardens, Rome, Italy by Yannick Carer

Porta di Roma Shopping Center

One of Europe’s biggest shopping malls, the Porta di Roma is a 150,000-square-meter retail heaven off the GRA, the road that rings Rome.  Car hire is a good option for anyone considering a visit to this centre, which features more than 200 shops, numerous restaurants, four tennis courts, two football pitches, and an indoor gym with a swimming pool.  And you can save your feet for the Ancient City:  The mall is furnished with a series of moving sidewalks, escalators, and upholstered seating.

Ristorante-Caffe’ Lo Zodiaco

For one of the best views you’ll get of historic Rome, it’s hard to beat this charming cafe on Viale del Parco Mellini.  High above the city, it offers panoramic views but is a little off the tourist track.  It is particularly romantic in the evening, when meals are served by candlelight beneath the enormous windows that frame the cityscape.

Villa d’Este

If you weren’t convinced already, a visit to the Eternal City  illustrates just how comfortable the life of a Roman Catholic clergyman could be.  Villa d’Este is a testament to the the power and opulence enjoyed by the Church’s upper echelons.  Built in the 16th century on the order of Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este, this palatial estate encompasses some of Europe’s loveliest gardens in Europe and exemplifies Renaissance culture at its grandest.

Villa d’Este, Tivoli, near Rome, Italy by Mmxbass

Join the evening passeggiata

Masters of style, the Italians have turned their dinner amble into the premier social event of the day.  During the evening passeggiata (“little walk”) between 5 and 7pm, crowds parade the city streets to be seen fare la bella figura, (“cutting a beautiful figure”).  You may not feel suitably attired to take part, but you can always watch.  Via del Corso is passegiata central, but every locality has its own minor version.

Aoife O’Carroll is a staff writer for Nova Car Hire, a convenient website for arranging car rental in 26,000 locations worldwide, including Rome car hire.

The post The Alternative Side to Rome – Not As You Know It appeared first on Europe Explored.

Castle of San Angelo and the bridge, Rome, Italy / Photo by admin

Sightseeing

There will never be a shortage of places to go or see when visiting the city. Rome is a living and breathing tourist attraction. An old fountain or historic church will always be there to welcome any first time visitor. Thousands of years of history have filled the city with some of the world’s most beautiful structures. A simple glimpse of these places is enough to transport anyone to another time in history. The Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, Pantheon and Spanish Steps are just some of the must-see places to visit. Creating a travel plan with each of these places location in mind helps minimize travel time and lets you cover more places. Hiring a tourist guide for example helps you

Shopping

Italy is known for its designers, whether it’s the latest car design or the latest fashion trends from Milan, shoppers will find Rome to be a haven. Looking for a Bargain? Then visiting the Spanish steps or centro storico will give you a glimpse of some of the country’s biggest and upcoming names in fashion.

Weekday shopping hours are from 3:30 to 7:30 pm and 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM during weekends. Italians also take their coffee breaks seriously so be ready to wait for a few minutes in the afternoon. There are also avenues in the city lined with shops selling high-fashion brand names at discount prices. Talking to a local could help you get the best bargains and inside scoop for the city’s hidden treasures.

There are also a number of flea markets for buying souvenirs. Porta Portese in Trastevere is one of the most popular hunting grounds in the city. You could also give Testaccio’s food market or Campo de’ Fiori to get a better look into what the city has to offer.

Museums

The Vatican Museum is home to the world’s most beautiful art pieces. Located at the northwest corner of the city, it showcases works by some of the best Italian artists like Raphael, Caravaggio and Michelangelo. Other notable museums to visit include the Capitoline Museum, Musei Vaticani and Galleria Borghese. The Vatican requires a dress code for visitors entering the Sistine Chapel, Basilica di San Pietro and Musei Vaticani. Be ready to allocate some of your touring day’s for visiting these museums and arrange your travel plans accordingly.

St Peter’s Basilica, Vatican / Photo by admin

Entertainment

The city is not only home to art pieces from the past but also hosts some of the best performing artists in the world. Rome by day is a sight to behold and could only be rivaled by its nightlife. There is always something for everybody. Restaurants and cafes lining the city’s streets will be a perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. Theatres are some of the best in Europe. The Auditorium-Parco della Musica is a large venue that regularly shows live performances. Trendy bars and night clubs give visitors some of Europe’s best nightlife scenes.

This is an article by Suzzane who works for Rome Apartments.

The post A Traveler’s Must Do Guide When Visiting Rome | Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

Neonian Baptistery, Ravenna, Italy by Paul Baker

Individual or Packaged Tour: Your Choice

The choice of exploring art museums in Italy on your own or joining a group is left unto the choice of the traveler. However, it is more educational if you will travel with a licensed expert tour guide. At times, gazing upon these masterpieces is enough to trigger dozens of questions on your mind, which can easily be answered by these learned tour guides of the region. They have studied these artworks at depth and they are very much familiar with its history and symbolism.

Top Italy Art Tours from the Experts

These are some of the art tours you would definitely appreciate and enjoy during your stay in Italy.

Ravenna Mosaics

The area became the seat of power during the Roman Empire in the 5^th Century and houses an impressive collection of Christian mosaics. It is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Site in the region, which includes the Neonian Baptistery, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Arian Baptistery, Church of San Vitale, Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe, and Bassilica of Sant’ Apollinare Nuovo that are all constructed during the 5^th and 6^th century. Spending Euros on your tour guide will not be waste because he or she will be of great help to explain the Christian iconography highlighting a wonderful blend of Graeco-Roman tradition in Italy.

Uffizi Gallery

After indulging yourself at the Ravenna Mosaics, you will be pleased to continue your tour in Florence at the Uffizi Gallery. It may be hard to buy tickets in this museum because of the extreme popularity of the place thanks to works of Michelangelo, Piero della Francesca, Raphael, Giotto, Caravaggio, and Botticelli. Savor each moment you are allowed to gaze at these wonderful work of arts, which is open to the public Tuesdays until Sundays from 8:15 am until 6:50 in the evening. However, it will not be accessible during holidays like New Year, Christmas, and May 1. To guarantee tickets for entrance, make early online reservations or book a tour package with reliable sites for a more convenient art appreciation tour in Italy.

St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, Italy / Photo by admin

Architecture and Monuments

The architecture of the basilicas, cathedrals, and other monuments in itself are considered remnants of the glorious history left by the Italian Renaissance. You are free to visit the Vatican and gaze at the artistry hosted by these living museum. You will be in awe as you enter St. Peter’s Basilica, which was constructed by prominent artists like Michelangelo, the designer of the enormous dome and Carlo Maderno, the person responsible for the magnificent façade of the cathedral. Unfortunately, almost all tickets for entrance to the museum has been reserved, which means the only way to see it is through licensed tour agencies operating in Italy.

There is no argument with a statement that tour of Italy is an expensive one. However, for lovers of the art, culture, and tradition. It is a price worth spending because the experience is priceless.

About the Author:

Shaiya Ong is a freelance writer for Rome Airport, a friendly guide for those wishing to save on their travel experience in Italy.

The post Reminiscing the Glory of the Renaissance in Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

Rome is a city steeped with rich culture and traditions. Visitors coming here can enjoy the finest culture in the world, in this city. This destination has gained a lot of popularity as a prominent destination in the entire world. Leading carriers has enhanced the number of flights to Rome serving this destination. “The Eternal City” is ready to welcome the tourists coming here with open arms. When planning to visit this city, some valuable travel tips need to be kept in mind thereby ensuring a perfect vacation. It is necessary to book cheap airline flights well in advance. Though, many international airlines ply their services to this sector, timely bookings can help avoid any inconveniences later.

Rome, Italy / Photo by admin

Spring is the best time to visit this beautiful city. The spring season continues from March through May. Another time, that is suitably appropriate for the visit is the fall season when the weather is perfect for exploring the city at leisure. Since summers are comparatively hot and humid, visitors mostly avoid these two seasons for their travel. This time, the city is full of tourist crowd, and it is difficult to get hold of preferred seats and preferred rooms in a hotel. Winters, on the other hand, are quite chilly, and it becomes difficult to venture out. Most of the time, tourists have to stay cooped up in their hotel rooms and the excitement of the vacation wanes. Although, there are some travelers who visit this city during Christmas celebrations, as, at this time of the year, joy and festivities galore, many visitors tend to avoid the holiday rush.

As soon as the flight lands at the airport, visitors can travel directly to the Station Termini instead of standing in long queues waiting for a private cab. Private taxis should only be used when visitors are carrying heavy luggage. Public transportation in the city is not only fast and efficient but highly affordable. Budget travelers mostly use this network of transportation ensuring accessibility to the tourist attractions much easier. Enjoying these attractions is convenient by booking cheap flights to Rome.

From the Spanish Steps in May, Rome, Italy / Photo by admin

In order to explore this city, the best way if enjoy a stroll around this city. Self exploration, at times, offer treasure trove of attractions spread all over the city. Pick a right pair of footwear and enjoy exploring this city at leisure. This city has made a name for offering excellent dining choices. There are several swanky restaurants and roadside cafes where visitors can enjoy a wide array of mouth watering cuisines and delicacies. One can choose best pizza, pasta and many other authentic Italian dishes. It is fascination to enjoy local dishes at the road side cafes. Availability of cheap tickets to Rome by leading carriers like Air France offers a chance to enjoy this magnificent city.

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Venetian masks, Carnival in Venice, Italy / Photo by admin

History of the Carnival

The Carnival attracted thousands of people to the city during the carnival hey day.  The streets were full of people wearing masks and people could not distinguish between the commoners and the nobility.  In the squares there would be street artists and singers.  People wanted to party in Venice and came from all over Europe.  There were theaters, cafes, restaurants, gambling dens, brothels where the visitors could spend their money.

Events

There is a lot of entertainment during Carnival, there are food stalls and costumed characters, theatre shows, gondola and boat parades along the Grand Canal.  The main events take place around the St Mark’s Square such as the Mask parades but each Sestiere will also have their own celebrations.  There is also a Carnival for children in the Cannargio district.  The last day of Carnival there is a fireworks display in St Marks Square, but you do not have to be there to see it, you can view the fireworks from anywhere in Venice.

Accommodation

If you are thinking of heading over to Venice during the carnival, do so, just book your flights and accommodation well in advance.  Be expected to pay more for your accommodation, as hotels will be charging a higher rate.  You could also check out the cost of renting one of the apartments in Venice, it may work out cheaper if there is a large group of you going.

Masks

Masks have played an important part in the Venice carnival.  People were allowed to wear the masks between St Stephen’s day and the start of the carnival season (Shrove Tuesday). There is a new theme each year for Carnival but everyone will be wearing a mask. There are many different types, there is the bauta mask that covers the whole face, the Columbina, a half mask normally decorated with silver, gold, crystals and feathers, the Plague Doctor mask which has a long beak and is one of the most recognisable Venetian masks.

More than 30,000 people visit Venice each day during Carnival, making it one of the busiest times of the year for the city.  If you are thinking about going, it is well worth booking one of the short-term rental Venice apartments 6 to 8 months in advance. The celebrations start 40 days before Easter and last for 2 weeks.

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