A tour of the workshop where costumes for the Venetian carnival are sewn.
When it comes to the Venetian carnival, vintage clothing and masks are the undeniable heroes.
But where and how are the costumes for the Venetian carnival created?
To answer this question, we invite you to step into the magnificent Venetian workshop of historical costumes and handcrafted masks.
In the workshop of masks and costumes for the Venetian carnival in Venice: discover a magical world
In the workshop located just a 10-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, the atmosphere of 18th century Venice seems to come alive – vintage costumes, masks, and accessories remind of this. The workshop is one of the few that operates according to ancient traditions. Thus, you will be able to appreciate the value of craftsmanship, indispensable in the making of Venetian masks, which still survive among industrially produced masks brought from afar.
The masters will reveal to you the secrets of their craft in making vintage masks and costumes for the Venetian carnival.
You will learn about the historical roots of the carnival, the fashion of past centuries in Venice, and the fine work of the masters, whose models combine creativity, historical research, and excellent technical skills.
During the tour, you will learn about the history and techniques of making traditional Venetian costumes and commedia dell’arte costumes. These handmade masterpieces, true works of art, can be seen every year on carnival participants in the streets of the city. Everyone interested can rent a costume in this workshop for one day and participate in masquerade balls in Venice.
You will also be told interesting and curious historical and modern facts about the carnival, from the unique perspective of the creators of beautiful handmade clothing and accessories.
Then the discussion will turn to the Venetian mask, its history, types, and the process of creation and decoration. This will be explained to you by a master in the workshop during a practical demonstration of making a beautiful traditional mask, which you may later see in some corner of Venice during the carnival.
You can request an assistant – a translator from our managers.
