Italy's Carnevale is synonymous with fun, cheer and most of all transgression. Since its origins, the famous carnival mask served to break down the values, inhibitions and rules of society, masking social hierarchy and encouraging anonymity, with interesting consequences. The same kind of atmosphere lingers today. A Carnevale ogni scherzo vale, goes the popular Italian saying - during carnival every prank is allowed. Here, rules are forgotten and foolish behaviour takes over.
Most revellers wear the traditional Venetian masks and costumes, while others are very creative and make their own, turning up as anyone and anything - a box of chocolate, a toothbrush or a historical character. The magical mood of carnival peaks on its last day, Shrove Tuesday, Martedì Grasso. Not much work gets done on this day as people usually go to school, university and some even to work in full carnival get-up.
In primitive times masks represented the occult, but today one of carnival's most popular costumes is Arlecchino, the joker character from the Commedia dell'arte. He sports a colourful patchwork costume made from diamond shaped pieces of material, and also wears a distinctive mask. But his cheerful character hides an evil twist - his name derives from the Old French word Hellequin, a demon. Very spooky!
Italy's Carnevale is synonymous with fun, cheer and most of all transgression. Since its origins, the famous carnival mask served to break down the values, inhibitions and rules of society, masking social hierarchy and encouraging anonymity, with interesting consequences. The same kind of atmosphere lingers today. A Carnevale ogni scherzo vale, goes the popular Italian saying - during carnival every prank is allowed. Here, rules are forgotten and foolish behaviour takes over. 
