Last Updated on March 5, 2024 by MONICA

Carnival in Italy : Venice Carnevale and Other Facts You Should Know

Carnevale, an iconic carnival in Italy, is a vibrant and colorful celebration that takes place in the weeks leading up to Easter. The festival has been a part of Italian culture for centuries and has evolved into a grand winter event that attracts both locals and tourists to indulge in the excitement.

During Carnevale, different regions in Italy have their unique ways of observing the festival, but some common elements include wearing elaborate masks and costumes, partaking in delicious feasts, and engaging in lively street performances. The festival is a time of joy, fun, and extravagance, where people are free to express themselves creatively.

One of the most famous Italian Carnivals occurs in Viareggio, which is the second-most popular in the country after Venice. The event spans an entire month, and there is never a dull moment. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of night and day activities, including masquerade balls, street performers, and parades featuring intricate floats. District celebrations and masked dances are also part of the festivities.

Carnevale is an exuberant tradition that immerses participants in Italy’s rich culture, revealing a different side of the country that can be enjoyed by all. The carnival’s vibrancy, color, and energy make it a must-see event for anyone looking to experience Italy’s unique culture and traditions.

The Origins of The Festa: History of the First Carnival

Origins and Evolution

The history of Carnival in Italy can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Originating as a festive period leading up to the start of Lent, the tradition has evolved to become an elaborate and vibrant display of creativity and artistry.

The oldest Carnival on record dates back to 1094 in Venice. The city’s rich history and unique culture are deeply intertwined with the traditions of the famous Venetian Carnival. With roots in ancient Roman festivities, its evolution began to take shape in the 12th and 13th centuries, becoming an annual event by 1296.

During this period, the Carnival dates generally began on December 26 and ended on Shrove Tuesday (Fat Tuesday), the day indulgence was encouraged before the start of Lent. The timing of the celebration created a unique opportunity for citizens to enjoy life’s pleasures before enduring 40 days of religious devotion.

In 1347, the celebration reached new heights when a victory over the Patriarch of Aquileia in the Feste delle Marie led to the establishment of new traditions, including the use of masks, giving the event the distinctive appearance it is famous for today.

Over the centuries, the Venice Carnival has continued to evolve, incorporating even more elaborate masks and costumes while maintaining its historical roots. The event has remained an essential staple in Venice and has been sought to preserve it.

To better understand the timeline, below is a brief overview of the notable events in the history of the Venice Carnival:

Year	Event
1094	Earliest documentation of the Venetian Carnival
1296	Official recognition of the event as an annual festivity
1347	Celebration after the Feste delle Marie

The Venice Carnival celebrates creativity and cultural richness. It honours its centuries-old tradition by inviting local and international talents to keep it vibrant for generations to come.

Significance of the Venice Carnival

The Venice Carnival is an annual festival that began in the 11th century and lasts for two to three weeks, ending on Shrove Tuesday, 40 days before Easter. It’s a time for people to enjoy themselves before Lent.

Venice Carnival holds great importance for the city and its residents. The main attractions are masks and costumes with intricate designs and craftsmanship. These masks allowed people to hide their social status and identity, enabling them to socialize freely with others regardless of their standing.

During the Carnival, you can witness various events, from public celebrations to lavish masquerade balls. The Venice Carnival is not only a significant cultural event for locals, but it also attracts thousands of tourists worldwide, enamored by its enchanting atmosphere and stunning visuals.

The Carnival of Venice is a fascinating event blending history, tradition, and spectacular entertainment. Its colorful spectacle offers the opportunity to step back in time and dive into a world of masked revelry.

Carnival Celebrations Across Italy

Italy is home to various carnival celebrations that showcase the country’s rich history and cultural diversity. Each region has its unique twist on this festive occasion, offering spectators an array of vibrant events and distinctive experiences.

Italy hosts several carnival festivals that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage.

• The Carnival of Ivrea in northern Italy is known for its Battle of the Oranges reenactment, symbolizing the fight for freedom against Napoleonic troops in 1194.
•  The Carnevale di Viareggio in Tuscany is another famous carnival that features satirical floats and costumes that poke fun at politicians and celebrities. 
• The Putignano Carnival in Apulia boasts one of the longest parade routes globally, making it a unique tradition in the city’s culture.
•  The Carnival in Acireale, Sicily, displays intricate floats adorned with thousands of flowers, providing a delightful visual spectacle for visitors. Each city adds its distinct touch to the festivities, making Italy a treasure trove of vibrant and culturally diverse carnival celebrations.

Carnival in Acireale: A Fusion of Baroque Beauty and Festive Fun

he Carnival in Acireale is an enchanting annual event in the charming Baroque town of Acireale, located on the east coast of Sicily. Celebrated as the most beautiful Carnival in Sicily, it has a rich history dating back to the Renaissance. 

The festivities usually begin in late January and continue until mid-February, making it a perfect time to immerse oneself in the unique blend of art, culture, and entertainment.

Acireale is known for its stunning Baroque architecture that provides a magnificent setting for carnival celebrations. The Carnival features allegorical floats, imaginative costumes, and well-coordinated performances. It is also one of the oldest traditions in Sicily, dating back to the late 16th century.

During the Carnival, the streets and piazzas come alive with colorful parades, captivating music, and lively dance performances. The event also features fantastic culinary delights, including Scacciata, a famous Sicilian street food dish. 

Scacciata is a flavorful pie-like bread filled with various ingredients, such as potatoes, cheese, and olives, or vegetables and fish, depending on the recipe.

Key highlights of the Carnival in Acireale include:

• Allegorical Floats: Finely crafted, these elegant floats showcase local artisans’s creativity and artistic abilities. They often depict satirical representations of political, social, or cultural themes.
• Masked Groups: Participants wear intricate costumes and masks in various themes, providing a captivating display of color and imagination.
• Musical Performances: The event is accompanied by diverse live music, ranging from traditional Sicilian folk songs to contemporary tunes.

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Visitors attending the Acireale Carnival can expect a truly unforgettable experience as they participate in the historic and vibrant festival that has become a cornerstone of Sicilian culture.

Cento: Discovering the Unique Flavors of Carnival in Italy

Cento, located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, in the province of Ferrara, is home to an extraordinary carnival celebration known as the Cento Carnival of Europe. This event is widely recognized as one of Italy’s most entertaining and spectacular carnival celebrations. Its roots can be traced back to the seventeenth century, as depicted in frescoes by the famous painter Gian Francesco Barbieri, also known as Il Guercino. The Cento Carnival has a rich history that continues to thrive.

The Cento Carnival in Italy is famous for its impressive allegorical floats over 20 meters high and brought to life with mesmerizing choreography and mechanical movements. 

The festival is twinned with the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, making it unique among Italian carnivals. These floats are a testament to the creativity and pride of the people of Cento, and they attract visitors from all over the world.

The Cento Carnival is about the fantastic floats and a vibrant display of culture and art. Thanks to collaborations with local organizers, a dense program of initiatives related to cultural-artistic and food aspects adds to the festive atmosphere.

Some highlights include:

• Entertaining musical performances
• Delicious local dishes and treats
• Skits and street theater acts

Cento offers a unique carnival experience in Italy with grand allegorical floats, rich cultural and artistic programs, and a warm atmosphere, making it a must-visit event for those seeking a one-of-a-kind celebration.

Viareggio Carnival: A Spectacle of Creativity and Community Spirit

The Viareggio Carnival is an annual event held in the coastal city of Viareggio, Italy. It was inaugurated in 1873 and has since grown to become one of the most important carnivals in Italy, attracting huge crowds of locals and tourists every year. This vibrant and colorful celebration showcases the creativity, skill, and community spirit that binds the residents of Viareggio together.

During the carnival, magnificent floats designed by local artists make their way through the city streets. These floats are a breathtaking display of artistic talent and craftsmanship, often featuring intricate and satirical portrayals of political, social, and cultural events. Participants work tirelessly throughout the year, collaborating on themes, designs, and construction techniques to create these memorable centerpieces.

In addition to the extraordinary floats, the carnival is a platform for engaging performances that showcase an eclectic mix of art forms. 

These include:

• Traditional Italian folk music
• Masked dance performances and street theater
• Costumes displaying the diverse cultures and traditions of Italy
• Interactive activities for children, such as face painting and puppet shows

The culinary scene at the Viareggio Carnival is to be noticed. Local food vendors set up stalls offering an array of Italian gastronomic delights, from the ubiquitous pizza and handmade pasta dishes to mouthwatering gelato and freshly baked focaccia. Savory and sweet treats can be found in every corner, as gastronomy is integral to the festivities.

The Viareggio Carnival is a spectacular showcase of ingenuity, creativity, and communal spirit. This highly anticipated event presents an opportunity for the citizens of Viareggio and visitors to immerse themselves in a world where imagination comes to life and celebrated Italian heritage is fully displayed.

Carnevale in Milan: A Fusion of Contemporary Celebrations and Tradition

Milan’s Carnevale, known as Carnevale Ambrosiano, is a unique event that outlasts the usual Carnival celebrations in Italy by four days. This Milano Carnival combines tradition with contemporary elements, with festivities beginning on February 14th and ending on February 17th.

One of the critical highlights of Carnevale Ambrosiano is the vibrant parade, where colorful costumes, extravagant floats, and lively street performers make their way through the city. These processions and events occur in various locations, with Piazza Duomo and the surrounding areas being the main hotspots for celebrations. The fusion of tradition and contemporary culture is evident in the performances, as street artists display their talents alongside time-honored Italian customs.

Another fascinating aspect of Milan’s Carnival is its unique food. From traditional chiacchiere and frittelle to modern, experimental dishes, food lovers can savor the local cuisine’s rich history and bold flavors during this festive period. It is also when Italian families come together, indulging in homemade delicacies and enjoying each other’s company.

In addition to the captivating parades and gastronomic offerings, Carnevale Ambrosiano hosts various cultural events suitable for all ages. Concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibitions often occur during this time, showcasing Milan’s thriving artistic community and the depth of creativity within the city. 

Families with children can share the joy of this special occasion, attending workshops and participating in fun-filled activities guaranteed to create lasting memories.

In summary, Carnevale in Milan is a unique blend of ancient customs and modernity, which attracts both tourists and locals to experience the city’s unparalleled festive spirit. The lively atmosphere, along with its rich cultural heritage, makes Milan’s Carnevale Ambrosiano an outstanding event that truly distinguishes itself within Italy’s Carnival celebrations.

Unique Carnival Celebration in Ivrea: The Battle of the Oranges

In the small town of Ivrea, located at the foot of the Piedmont Alps, Italy hosts one of its most unique and historical carnivals – the Battle of the Oranges. This historic festival dates back to the Middle Ages and is held annually in late February.

The core element of the Ivrea Carnival is the exciting and chaotic Battle of the Oranges. Participants form nine teams of orange throwers, known as Aranceri, all wearing different colors and team crests. The Asso di Picche, for instance, is the oldest team and dons a black Ace of Spades on a red outfit.

This peculiar celebration is not just about throwing oranges for fun. It has deep-rooted historical significance; the event symbolizes the rebellion against tyrannical rulers, with oranges representing the stones the people threw to stand their ground against oppression.

During the festival, around three tons of oranges are hurled across the town in a colorful and energetic display of zest. The Aranceri throw the oranges at each other, and the participants ride on the orange-thrower carts, re-enacting the medieval rebellion.

Visitors can watch and partake in this raucous, sticky, and fun event. To ensure the safety of bystanders, the town sets up designated safe zones where audience members can enjoy the spectacle without getting hit by the flying citrus.

Ivrea’s Battle of the Oranges is memorable, blending ancient tradition, historical significance, and immersive fun. As one of Italy’s most distinct and fascinating carnival celebrations, it is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing a truly unique piece of Italian culture.

Carnival in Putignano

The Carnival in Putignano is a vibrant and historical event, celebrated in the small town of Putignano, located in the Apulia region of Italy. 

Known for being the longest-lasting Carnival in Europe, it has a rich heritage dating back to 1394 when the relics of Santo Stefano Protomartire were moved from the Abbey of Monopoli to Putignano to protect them from invading Saracens.

While Carnival events occur globally, the one in Rio de Janeiro and the one in Putignano share some similarities, such as bold, colorful costumes, lively music, and impressive parade floats. However, each Carnival showcases its unique cultural aspects.

 In Putignano, the celebration is known for its artistic expression, particularly through intricate papier-mâché floats.

 These magnificent creations are showcased during parades that take place on various dates.

 Additionally, during this time, the town itself transforms into an open-air theater where street performers, musicians, and artists entertain the crowds.

In contemporary times, the Carnival held in Putignano has become one of the most notable winter events in Italy, drawing visitors from all around the globe. Its distinct mixture of history, culture, and innovation serves as an excellent representation of the Italian heritage.

Carnival Traditions and Customs

Masks and Costumes

The Italian Carnival, with its deep historical roots stretching back to the Middle Ages and flourishing during the Renaissance, is a testament to Italy’s rich cultural heritage and its penchant for the dramatic and the artistic. 

The masks and costumes are central to this vibrant festival, transforming the celebration into a dazzling spectacle of anonymity, revelry, and social inversion.

At the heart of the Carnival, particularly in Venice, which hosts the most famous celebrations, masks serve as decorative accessories and symbols of freedom and disguise. They allow individuals to step outside their everyday roles and engage in festivities with a sense of anonymity and liberation. 

The craftsmanship of these masks is a highly regarded art form involving techniques and materials that have been refined over centuries. 

Traditional Venetian masks such as the ‘Bauta,’ with its gilded surface and prominent chin designed to disguise the voice, and the ‘Columbina,’ a half-mask adorned with crystals and feathers, are iconic representations of the Carnival’s mystique.

The ‘Medico della Peste’ (Plague Doctor), with its long, beaked facade, is another distinctive mask that, despite its eerie origins related to the plague, has become a staple of the festivities, adding a touch of historical intrigue to the celebrations. Then there is the ‘Moretta,’ an oval mask of black velvet that was historically worn by women, enhancing their silent mystery.

Costumes range from wealthy to fantastical, reflecting historical attire and characters from Commedia dell’arte.

These costumes are not merely for adornment; they are a nod to Venice’s history, its social hierarchies, and the city’s role as a crossroads of cultures. Nobles and commoners alike would don extravagant dresses and suits, often made from luxurious fabrics like silk and velvet, adorned with lace, jewels, and elaborate embroidery, allowing them to masquerade as anyone from anywhere, blurring the lines of reality and fiction, wealth and poverty.

The Carnival thus becomes a canvas for personal and collective expression, a time when the streets of Italian cities, especially Venice, come alive with parades, music, and dance. It’s a period when artistry, creativity, and the spirit of community shine brightest, encapsulated in the dazzling array of masks and costumes that tell stories of a bygone era while celebrating the timeless human desire for freedom, festivity, and transformation. 

This annual celebration not only preserves the historical and cultural significance of these traditions but also revitalizes them, ensuring that they continue to enchant and inspire both Italians and visitors from around the world.

Food and Drink at Italian Carnival: Indulging in Festive Delights

The Italian Carnival is a time of celebration, and one of its most significant aspects is the indulgence in various food and drink offerings. These tasty treats showcase Italy’s rich flavors and culinary expertise, delighting both locals and tourists alike.

During the festivities, traditional carnival sweets are an absolute must-try. Among the most iconic sweets is the chiacchiere, also known as crostoli, frappe, or bugie in various regions. These thin, crispy strips of deep-fried dough sprinkled with powdered sugar provide a sweet contrast to their delicate crunch.

Another popular option for those with a sweet tooth is the frittelle. These are fried dough balls, which can be plain or enriched with fillings like custard, pastry cream, dried fruit, or even rice, depending on the regional variation. Enjoying a warm, freshly-made batch of frittelle is an experience that perfectly encapsulates the festive vibes of Italian Carnival.

Regarding beverages, there are no specific drinks exclusive to the Carnival. However, Italians love to pair their delectable sweets with a cup of steaming espresso, cappuccino, or a glass of sweet liqueur like limoncello or amaretto for an extra layer of indulgence.

Here are a few more notable food and drink offerings to savor during the Italian Carnival:

• Arancini: A deep-fried rice ball filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, popular in Sicily.
• Bomboloni: Italian-style donuts with custard, chocolate, or fruit jams.
• Galani: Long, thin strips of sweet fried dough, similar to chiacchiere, prevalent in Venice.
• Cenci: Another variation of chiacchiere, these treats are made by folding the dough into knots before frying and dusting with powdered sugar.

The Italian Carnival is a haven for food and drink enthusiasts. Tasting these time-honored festive delights not only adds to the joy of the celebrations but also provides a delectable glimpse into Italy’s rich culinary traditions.

Dates and Duration of the Carnival

In Italy, Carnival is a festive season that occurs in February, 40 days before Easter. Italians come together for two weeks of lively festivities, featuring elaborate costumes, vibrant colors, and indulgent feasting. The duration of specific events varies by region, but the Venice Carnival is one of the most famous events, attracting both locals and tourists.

The Putignano Carnival in Puglia is the longest and possibly oldest celebration in Italy, starting on December 26th and culminating on Fat Tuesday, just before the beginning of Lent. The dates of Italy’s Carnival celebrations should also be considered.

Italy’s Carnival is a magical event that is eagerly anticipated each year, with elaborate parades and delectable sweets. To experience it in all its splendor, visitors are encouraged to join the festivities across the country, whether in Venice, Viareggio, or at the historic Putignano Carnival. Enjoy the rich culture and history infused in every aspect of Italy’s beloved Carnival.

Cultural Impact of Carnival

Carnival in Italy has been an essential tradition since the 16th century. It is considered one of the world’s most ancient and significant events, showcasing the rich Italian culture and history. The festa originated as a celebration of chaos, mockery of authorities, and exaggerated social satire. It was a time when people wanted to freely express their thoughts and feelings, which played a crucial role in shaping Italian society.

Italian vs Rio Carnival

Italy and Brazil hold two of the most famous Carnival celebrations worldwide, with distinct styles. The Italian Carnival is rich in history, culture, and art and is best represented by the Venetian Carnival. The Carnival is all about elegance and mystery, and features elaborate costumes and masks. Participants take on new personas, as social norms are temporarily set aside, and enjoy masquerade balls, parades, and historical reenactments. The Carnival pays homage to its medieval origins.

The culinary delights, as integral to the celebrations as the costumes, feature traditional sweets like Chiacchiere and savory dishes unique to each region, reflecting Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Contrastingly, the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a vibrant explosion of color, rhythm, and movement. It’s world-renowned for its samba parades, featuring elaborate floats and costumes, but here, the focus is more on music, dance, and the spirit of festivity. The samba schools are at the heart of the celebration, competing in the Sambadrome with performances that are the result of months of preparation. 

The entire city becomes a party, with street bands (blocos) and spontaneous dancing everywhere. The Brazilian Carnival is a showcase of the country’s diverse cultural heritage, drawing on African, indigenous, and Portuguese influences to create a unique, all-encompassing celebration of life.

While the Italian Carnival is more introspective, emphasizing artistic expression and historical continuity, the Brazilian Carnival is an outward, dynamic celebration of community and culture. 

Italy offers a reflective, almost intimate experience, inviting participants to step into a world of historical fantasy and culinary indulgence. In contrast, Brazil’s Carnival is an all-encompassing sensory overload, a testament to the country’s love of dance, music, and communal celebration. 

Both Carnivals, however, share a common purpose: to provide a temporary escape from the constraints of daily life, allowing for a period of unrestrained joy and festivity before the onset of Lent. Whether through the silent mystery of a Venetian mask or the pulsating rhythms of the samba, both Italian and Rio Carnivals capture the human desire for celebration, each in their own uniquely captivating way.

Aspect	Italian Carnival	Rio Carnival
Cultural Significance	Reflects Italy’s rich cultural heritage, emphasizing artistic expression and historical continuity.	A vibrant showcase of Brazil’s diverse cultural heritage, focusing on community and celebration.
Historical Roots	Traces back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, deeply embedded in European history.	Originated in the 17th century but heavily influenced by African, indigenous, and Portuguese cultures.
Main Attractions	Elaborate masks and costumes, masquerade balls, and historical reenactments.	Samba parades with elaborate floats and costumes, street bands (blocos), and widespread dancing.
Music and Dance	Not as central as in Rio; more focused on classical and folk music.	Central to the celebration, with samba music and dance defining the event’s character.
Costumes	Elegant and historical costumes, emphasizing anonymity and social inversion.	Colorful and flamboyant costumes, often with feathers and sequins, showcasing creativity and festivity.
Culinary Traditions	Features traditional sweets (e.g., Chiacchiere) and regional delicacies, highlighting Italy’s gastronomic diversity.	While not as emphasized as in Italy, includes street foods and beverages unique to Brazilian culture.
Social Impact	A time for social satire and commentary, with a focus on local communities and traditions.	Brings together people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of national unity and pride.
Duration and Timing	Occurs before Lent, with festivities peaking in the week leading up to Ash Wednesday.	Also occurs before Lent, with the main events happening over five days, culminating on Fat Tuesday.

5 Fascinating Facts about Carnival in Italy

Carnival in Italy is a time-honored tradition encapsulating the rich tapestry of Italian culture, history, and revelry. Beyond the well-known masquerades and parades, this festive season is imbued with fascinating customs, lesser-known tales, and intriguing practices that reflect the depth and diversity of Italy’s regional celebrations. Here are five fascinating facts about Carnival in Italy that showcase the unique and sometimes unusual aspects of this beloved period:

1. The Longest Carnival in the World: The Carnival of Ivrea, located in the Piedmont region, is known for its unique “Battle of the Oranges,” symbolizing the town’s liberation from tyranny. What sets this Carnival apart is its vibrant citrus warfare and its claim to be one of the longest carnivals in the world, stretching celebrations over a month.
2. A Mask with a Medical History: The ‘Medico della Peste’ (Plague Doctor) mask, with its long beak, is a striking and somewhat eerie sight at the Venetian Carnival. Initially designed in the 17th century by Charles de Lorme to prevent the plague’s spread, the mask’s beak was filled with aromatic items believed to purify the air. This historical protective wear has now become a symbol of the Carnival, blending history with festivity.
3. Forbidden Under Fascism: For much of the 20th century, the Italian Carnival experienced a period of suppression. Under Mussolini’s fascist regime, public wearing of masks was banned, significantly dampening the traditional festivities. In the late 20th century, cities like Venice revived their carnival traditions, restoring them to their former glory and beyond.
4. A Feast for Animals: In the small town of Castelnuovo, near Florence, there’s a unique Carnival event dedicated to horses, riders, and even donkeys. The “Berlingaccio” festival includes races and parades where animals are adorned with flowers and ribbons, celebrating both human and equine participants in the Carnival’s joy.
5. Ancient Roots in Seasonal Change: While most associate Carnival with Christian traditions leading up to Lent, its origins in Italy can be traced back to ancient Roman festivities like Saturnalia and Lupercalia. These celebrations, marked by feasts, role reversals, and temporary suspension of social norms, highlight Carnival’s deep roots in rituals celebrating the end of winter and the arrival of spring.

These facts offer a glimpse into the complex and colorful mosaic of Italy’s Carnival, a festival where ancient traditions meet modern-day celebrations and where every mask, costume, and event tells a story of cultural pride, historical battles, and communal joy.

Answering your FAQ

What is the history of carnival in Italy?

A: The history of carnival in Italy dates back to 1347 when the tradition began in Venice. It has been celebrated annually, with festivities varying from north to south of Italy. What are some interesting facts about carnival in Italy?

What are some interesting facts about carnival in Italy?

A: Five interesting facts about the carnival in Italy include its association with the final party before Lent, the use of historical masks, the significance of the city’s carnival, and the celebration of the event four days after Doge Vitale Falier’s surrender in 1797.

What is the significance of carnival in Venice?

A: The carnival in Venice holds great historical and cultural importance for the city. It has been a celebrated and cherished tradition for centuries, attracting people from all over the world to witness the elaborate costumes and masks.

How is carnival celebrated in Fano, Italy?

A: The city of Fano has its own unique carnival traditions, with colorful parades and events taking place on the streets of Fano, attracting visitors to participate in the lively festivities.

What is the connection between carnival in Italy and Mardi Gras?

A: Carnival in Italy is similar to the Mardi Gras celebration in other parts of the world, as both events mark the final celebration before the beginning of Lent, with elaborate costumes, parades, and feasting.

How did carnival in Italy evolve over the years?

A: The carnival in Italy has evolved from its origins in Venice to become a cherished tradition celebrated in various cities across the country, with each region contributing its unique customs and festivities to the overall celebration.

What are the historical masks used during carnival in Italy?

A: Carnival in Italy features a variety of historical masks, each with its own significance and traditions. These masks add a sense of mystery and allure to the festivities, with each mask representing different historical and cultural characters.