The roots of this carnival can be traced back to the city's victory over the nearby Aquileia army in 1162. However, the Venice Carnival was never just to celebrate military victory. Indeed, one of the main reasons for the carnival was the temporary removal of Venice's social hierarchy.

 

Over the years, Venice has established the strictest rules governing the appearance and behavior of people of different classes. However, during the carnival, the poor may become princes and openly tolerate worldly food such as gambling and prostitution. The carnival reached its peak in the 18th century and is immortal in Giacomo Casanova's autobiography.

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Masked participants stand in St. Mark’s Square during the Carnival festivities in Venice, Italy. Carnival traditionally commemorates the passing of winter, with parties, costumes and balls, in the run-up to the Christian observation of Lent.