Tickets Venice
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Venice Carnival Masks: History, Mystery & Craftsmanship

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Venice Carnival
Young woman painting the mask at Mask Workshop, Venice
Mask making artist helping a visitor at Mask Workshop, Venice
People making masks at Mask Workshop, Venice
Masks kept for drying at Mask Workshop, Venice
Masks drying after being painted at Mask Workshop, Venice
Heritage Experiences
4.5(0)

Mask Decoration Workshop in St. Mark's Square

  • Create your own unique mask at a mask-making workshop led by an artisan instructor at the Prison Palace in Venice's heart.
  • Gain valuable lessons on painting and use different techniques under the guidance of master painters available in English, Italian, French or Spanish.
  • Choose from 50+ handmade papier-mâché masks and bring home an authentic Venetian souvenir from Venice!
  • Use glitter, paint, and various materials to adorn a traditional Venetian carnival mask, culminating in a stunning masterpiece of your own.


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1 hr.
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  • Create your own unique mask at a mask-making workshop led by an artisan instructor at the Prison Palace in Venice's heart.
  • Gain valuable lessons on painting and use different techniques under the guidance of master painters available in English, Italian, French or Spanish.
  • Choose from 50+ handmade papier-mâché masks and bring home an authentic Venetian souvenir from Venice!
  • Use glitter, paint, and various materials to adorn a traditional Venetian carnival mask, culminating in a stunning masterpiece of your own.

Inclusions

  • 1-hour mask decoration workshop

  • Professional English, Italian, French or Spanish-speaking mask artisan

  • Colors and supplies

  • Tip: If using papier-mâché masks, consider pre-priming with white paint for a uniform surface and vibrant colors when painting.
  • Pets are not allowed inside the workshop.
  • People with back problems or mobility impairments might not find this activity comfortable.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Iain Manson
GB

Iain

United Kingdom
Jul 2025
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We loved being able to jump on and off the vaporetto system. Highlights were our use on Line 1 on the Grand Canal and trips out to Murano andd Burano.
Stephen Mc Cabe

Stephen

May 2025
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+2 more

Perfect way to see Venice . Use it as you would a hop on hop off. From circumnavigating on the 4+5 routes to enjoying the inner mini cruises on the 1+2 no better way to see this exceptional unique city. Also the added bonus of being able to access the islands of Murano and Burano on the same ticket it really is value for money and more.. I would highly recommend 👌it.
Marco Battistella

Marco

Jun 2025
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Revisited the Doge's Palace after almost 20 years, tour route somewhat reduced compared to the past, good visitor flow management. Acceptable wait at 'entrance.
Michelle Fowers
US

Michelle

United States
May 2025
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The highlight of the tour was going up on the rooftop of the duomoand seeing the beautiful views of Milan. The tour of the inside of the church was interesting, but our guide was hard to understand at times and was fairly dry. Of course, the duomo is gorgeous and it was excellent to get more information about some of the details of the beautiful cathedral.
Yolyvette Reyes Engalla
CA

Yolyvette

Canada
May 2025
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The gondola ride was memorable. It took about 30 minutes. We did a mini walking tour beforehand and learned some interesting Venice facts. There was also a virtual experience attraction after the gondola ride that we had to miss.
Ilka-Maria Lemke-Seeliger

Ilka-maria

May 2025
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Great experience beyond my expectation. Magnificent ceiling pictures in the Marcus duomo and great rooms in the Doge palace. Preparing with the tickets before the visit was the right thing to do.
JULIE WIGG
GB

Julie

United Kingdom
Apr 2025
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Saint Marks Basilica is absolutely stunning. I have been to Venice a few times but only for the Benalli and have never made it into this church. This time I brought my parents and we did the main sights. It was incredibly busy though, I think the guided tour groups, should be limited to small grouos once in the church. There is just not the room for them. Apart from them, it is absolutely breathtaking, the amount of workmanship and Craft that has gone into this building. Goodness knows how they keep it safe with that level of tourists every day. We did book early, which is advisable as there were no tickets available once you had arrived in Venice. The Doges Palace, had an untied ticket so we could make our own way there when we were ready which I thought was excellent. Once again, such a beautiful building, and very much worth a visit.
Janet Murphy
US

Janet

United States
Mar 2025
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+1 more

The craftsmanship that can never be replicated is mind boggling. Floors, ceilings and stutues. Would be incredible if the original plans exsisted. Not to be missed.

Top things to do in Venice

What’s a carnival without a little mystery?

The Venice Carnival Mask isn’t just an accessory—it’s a gateway to a world of intrigue, elegance, and centuries-old tradition. Dating back to the 12th century, these masks allowed Venetians to blur social lines, indulge in secrecy, and celebrate without restraint. Though once banned, they made a grand comeback and remain the heart of ​Venice Carnival today. Whether worn at proper masquerade balls or paraded through the city’s streets, these masks keep the magic alive!

More than just a costume: The meaning behind Venice Carnival masks

Venice Carnival participants in traditional masks and costumes, Italy.
Participants in traditional masks and costumes at Venice Carnival, Italy.
Venice Carnival participants in traditional masks and costumes, Italy.
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A city of masks, a city of equals

During the Carnival, masks erase identity—no titles, no ranks, just pure anonymity. In historical Venice, this meant that a merchant could chat freely with a noble, and a commoner could dance with an aristocrat. For a brief time, society’s rigid divisions melted away, replaced by a world where anyone could be anyone.

Freedom, mischief, and a hint of mystery

Beyond the grand celebrations, masks also had a more mischievous side. They allowed people to indulge in forbidden pleasures—gambling, secret romances, and political discussions without fear of consequence. Some Venetians took it further, using masks year-round to navigate the city’s power plays and intrigue.

Today’s Carnival: A nod to tradition

While masks no longer serve as tools for secrecy, they remain a vital part of the Venice Carnival experience. Whether you choose an ornate Bauta or a delicate Colombina, slipping on a mask lets you step into the magic of a centuries-old tradition—where for just a moment, you can be whoever you want to be.

Types of traditional Venice Carnival masks

Venetian masks displayed at the Venice Carnival in Italy.

Bauta

The Bauta is an all-white mask with a pointed chin, allowing wearers to eat and drink without removing it. It is often paired with a tricorn hat and a cloak.

Significance: Popular among nobles and politicians, the Bauta symbolizes anonymity and freedom during the Carnival.

Venice Carnival attendees wearing traditional Moretta masks in a vibrant street celebration.
Venice Carnival participants in traditional masks and costumes in Venice, Italy.
Venice Carnival attendees wearing traditional Plague Doctor masks in a vibrant street setting.
Venice Carnival attendees wearing traditional Volto masks in a vibrant street celebration.

The evolution of Venice Carnival masks—A timeline

Venice Carnival masks have been around for centuries, adding an air of mystery and rebellion to the city’s grandest celebration. But how did they go from simple disguises to iconic cultural symbols? Let’s take a fun stroll through history!

13th century: The origins

📜 1268 – The first recorded law restricting mask use appears—meaning masks were already a thing! Venetians loved them for blurring social lines, letting nobles and commoners celebrate side by side.

14th century: Carnival’s favorite accessory

👺 Masks become a must-have during Carnival, turning the city into an anonymous playground. They gave Venetians the freedom to break social norms, indulge in forbidden pleasures, and embrace secrecy.

15th century: Worn beyond carnival

✨ The Renaissance era sees masks becoming an everyday affair—not just for Carnival but for gambling, secret rendezvous, and masquerade balls. They symbolize freedom, fun, and a little mischief.

16th century: The masquerade boom

🎭 1580 – The Venetian Senate officially legalizes masks for Carnival. With demand soaring, mask-makers (mascherari) establish their own guild, crafting intricate designs that turn masks into high art.

17th Century: Theatrical & cultural icons

🎭 Masks take center stage in Commedia dell'Arte, a form of theater that popularizes character masks like the mischievous Arlecchino and the sly Pantalone.

18th Century: The golden age of masks

🎉 The 1700s bring peak mask-wearing freedom—Venetians can wear them for up to six months a year! Gambling houses, operas, and high-society parties become hotspots for masked intrigue.

19th Century: A sudden decline

⚠️ With the fall of the Venetian Republic, Austrian rulers crack down on Carnival traditions. Mask-wearing is largely banned, and the once-thriving mascherari trade fades.

20th Century: The grand revival

🌟 1979 – Venice decides to bring Carnival back in full glory! Artisans dust off old techniques, and mask-making returns as a celebrated craft.

21st Century: A global phenomenon

🌍 Today, Venice Carnival attracts visitors from all over the world. Be a part of a centuries-old tradition that still dazzles with mystery and charm.

And who knows? Put on a mask, and you just might feel a little Venetian magic yourself!

The art of Venetian mask making

Carnival masks on display - Venice

Traditional craftsmanship: A labor of love

Authentic Venetian masks are still made using time-honored techniques passed down through generations.

Skilled artisans shape them from papier-mâché, a lightweight yet durable material that allows for intricate detailing. Gold and silver leaf add an opulent touch, while delicate hand-painted patterns bring each piece to life. Some masks feature lace, feathers, or Swarovski crystals, elevating them from simple disguises to wearable art.

Artisan crafting workshop with pottery making in Florence, Italy.

See authentic mask making

For those interested in experiencing authentic mask-making, Venice has a variety of workshops and ateliers where you can see artisans at work.

Workshops like Ca’ Macana, TragiComica, and Il Canovaccio are celebrated for their commitment to traditional methods and high-quality craftsmanship. They give you a peek into the painstaking process, from molding and drying to painting and decorating. Some even offer hands-on experiences where you can design your own mask—a perfect souvenir infused with history.

Join a mask-making workshop
Venetian masks on display during the Venice Carnival in Italy.

Modern vs. Traditional

While classic designs like the Bauta, Colombina, and Volto remain timeless, modern artisans are pushing creative boundaries.

Today’s masks incorporate contemporary colors, abstract patterns, and unconventional materials while still honoring the rich Venetian tradition. Whether you prefer the authenticity of an 18th-century-inspired mask or a bold, avant-garde twist, Venetian craftsmanship continues to evolve while preserving its legacy.

Fun facts & myths about Venice Carnival masks

People in traditional Venetian masks and costumes at a Venice Carnival party.

1. Masks were once banned

Believe it or not, masks were so popular (and misused) that authorities had to crack down on them in the 13th century! People took full advantage of their anonymity—think theft, secret affairs, and high-stakes gambling. While bans were put in place, they never fully stopped Venetians from indulging in masked revelry.

People wearing Venice Carnival masks at a lively gambling table in Venice, Italy.

2. Gambling in disguise

Venice’s gambling houses weren’t just about luck—they were about secrecy. Masks allowed high-profile players to hide their identities while making (or losing) fortunes. The thrill wasn’t just in the game but in the mystery of who sat across the table.

Venetian masks on display at the Venice Carnival, Italy.

3. Casanova’s Carnival escapades

The legendary lover Giacomo Casanova knew how to make the most of Carnival. He used masks to slip into exclusive parties, woo unsuspecting women, and even escape trouble. If anyone embodied the free-spirited nature of Venetian masks, it was him!

Venetian masks displayed at Venice Carnival event.

4. The secret behind the cat mask

Ever seen a Venetian mask that looks like a cat? That’s the Gnaga, and it has quite the backstory. In the 16th century, when homosexuality was illegal, male prostitutes wore these feline disguises to blend in as women and avoid persecution during Carnival. A purr-fect cover!

Venice Carnival participant in traditional plague doctor mask and costume.

5. The plague doctor mask wasn’t always festive

The eerie Medico della Peste (Plague Doctor) mask, with its long beak, started as a 17th-century medical tool. Doctors filled the beak with aromatic herbs to protect themselves from disease. Now? It’s one of the most iconic (and slightly spooky) Carnival masks.

Venetian artisan crafting traditional mask in costume workshop, Venice, Italy.

6. The artisans behind the magic

The creators of these stunning masks, called mascherari, were once so important they had their own guilds and special protections. Today, they continue to blend tradition with modern artistry, ensuring Venice’s mask-making legacy lives on.

Where to buy authentic Venice Carnival masks?

Venice Carnival masks displayed in a shop in Venice, Italy.
  • Ca' Macana: Established in 1984, ​Ca' Macan is very popular for its high-quality, handcrafted Venetian masks made using traditional techniques. They offer a wide range of designs, from classic to contemporary.
  • Venezia Maschere by La Gioia: This workshop has been creating authentic Venetian masks since 1970. The masks ​here are crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring each piece is unique.
  • Original Venice Shop: Known for its exclusive selection of handcrafted masks made by local artisans, ​Original Venice Shop offers a variety of traditional designs that reflect the rich history of Venetian mask-making.
Venetian masks displayed at the Venice Carnival, Italy.
  • Material: Authentic Venetian masks are typically made from papier-mâché, which is lightweight and durable. If a mask feels excessively heavy or is made from plastic or synthetic materials, it may not be genuine.
  • Craftsmanship: Look for intricate hand-painted details and embellishments such as feathers or jewels. Mass-produced masks often lack the fine detailing characteristic of true artisan work.
  • Certification: Many reputable shops provide a certificate of authenticity or indicate that their products are "100% Made in Italy." This certification ensures that the mask was crafted in Venice by skilled artisans.
Venetian masks displayed at the Venice Carnival, Italy.

For those unable to visit Venice but still wishing to own an authentic piece, several online shops offer genuine Venetian masks:

  • Venezia Maschere: Has a wide selection of handcrafted masks with the option for international shipping. Website: ​Venezia Maschere
  • Ca' Macana Online Store: Provides an extensive collection of original Venetian masks crafted in their workshop in Venice. Website: ​Ca' Macana
  • Etsy: A marketplace featuring various independent sellers offering handmade Venetian masks. Ensure you check reviews and seller ratings for authenticity. Website: ​Etsy Venetian Masks

Frequently asked questions about Venice Carnival masks

Do I need to wear a mask at Venice Carnival?

You don’t have to, but why miss out on the fun? Wearing a mask is part of the magic, letting you fully immerse yourself in the Carnival’s mystique. Plus, many events, like masquerade balls, require one!

Can I make my own mask in Venice?

Yes! Join a ​mask-making workshop where you can decorate your own mask under the guidance of expert artisans. It’s a hands-on way to take home a unique souvenir.

Do I need to wear a full costume to wear a mask at the Venice Carnival?

Not necessarily! While some attendees don elaborate costumes, you can still fully participate by wearing a beautiful mask with semi-formal attire. For grand masquerade balls, a full costume is essential, but for roaming the streets and attending smaller events, a mask alone will suffice.

How do I choose the right mask for a masquerade ball?

Opt for a half-face mask if the event has a black-tie dress code, or any mask (full-face, half-face, or Venetian character) if it's a themed masquerade party. Consider masks from the Filigree metal range if you wear heavy foundation, as they are breathable and comfortable.

What should I consider when buying a mask?

Comfort is key! Try on different masks to ensure they fit well and allow you to move, eat, drink, and dance easily. Also, inquire with the event host about any specific mask requirements. Avoid plastic masks and instead go for papier-mâché masks that adjust to your face over time.

Can I rent a mask instead of buying one?

Masks cannot be rented for hygienic reasons. It's better to purchase a mask so that you can ensure its cleanliness and comfort.

What are some tips for wearing makeup with a mask?

If you are wearing a mask with a Venetian costume, it is important to prep your make up for wearing a mask. It’s essential to focus on the visible parts of your face. Highlight your lips with a bold color that complements your mask and consider wearing a mask that doesn't detract from beautiful eyes.

Can I wear my mask anywhere in Venice?

Mostly, yes! But some places, like banks or government buildings, may ask you to remove it. Otherwise, you’re free to roam the city in full Carnival style!

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