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The Carnival of Venice, one of the most emblematic and photographed festivities in the world, began its celebrations with a bang this Saturday. For the 2024 edition, Venice pays homage to one of its most famous sons, Marco Polo, by celebrating the 700th anniversary of his death with the theme “Towards the Orient. The Incredible Journey of Marco Polo.”
The magic of the Venice Carnival has once again enveloped the City of the Doges, transforming its streets and canals into a living tableau of joy and color. From the early hours, the streets came alive with revelers in disguise wearing masks and costumes with vibrant patterns, setting the tone for a party that promises to be unforgettable.
This year, the carnival gives a nod to the history and journeys of Marco Polo, the famous Venetian explorer. The chosen theme invites visitors on a fantastic journey, recalling Polo’s tales of the Orient. Venice, often seen as a bridge between the East and the West, becomes the ideal setting to relive the adventures of its illustrious traveler.
The official kickoff of the carnival is scheduled for February 3, but the festivities have already begun with a pre-carnival. Venice, shrouded in thick fog, offers a mysterious and captivating spectacle, typical of its winter beauty. The first participants, dressed in their finest attire, walked the cobblestone streets, drawing the admiration of locals and tourists alike.
One of the highlights of the weekend is the procession of traditional boats along the Grand Canal. This parade, heading towards the Rialto Bridge, is a living tribute to Venice’s maritime history. Thousands of tourists flock to admire this river parade, capturing unique moments with their cameras.
Andrea Vianello, a Venetian resident, shares his enthusiasm, “In recent years, I have been thrilled to bring joy to tourists who ask me for a souvenir photo.” Dressed in a white mask and a golden feathered hat, he embodies the joyful and welcoming spirit of the carnival.
The festivities of the Venice Carnival, which last until February 13, culminate with Mardi Gras, marking the end of the celebration and the beginning of Lent. This festival, whose origins date back to 1162, was created to celebrate a military victory. Having fallen into obscurity for centuries, it was revived in 1980 by the municipality, becoming an essential event in the city’s cultural calendar since then.
The Venice Carnival 2024, with its theme dedicated to Marco Polo, offers a unique experience where history and festivity meet. This event allows Venice to shine in the midst of the winter season, attracting visitors from all over the world. Through its costumes, masks and parades, the carnival continues to perpetuate the cultural heritage of this legendary city, celebrating not only its glorious past but also its vibrant and lively present.
With AFP