Sunday, February 27, 2011
Murano Glass Jewelry - The way to Spark Your Life With The Finest Italian Art
By: Tracy Chartman
Italians are famous for his or her fast cars, distinctive structure, renowned artists and exquisite jewelry, amongst many different things. It's a well known indisputable fact that they attempt to attain perfection and the whole lot they do proves that. Jewellery makes no exception. Italian glass jewelry is as near perfection as any jewel can get, judging by any standards, as a result of it's unique, beautiful, elegant, various, treasured and most significantly because it's manufactured in keeping with very outdated and elaborate methods.
Murano glass jewelry dates again so far as seven hundred years ago. This type of glass jewels was first manufactured in Venice, however the furnaces had been later moved to Murano, which is roughly ten minutes boat experience from Venice. As a result of the Venetians were the first to produce crystal clear glass, the system needed to be very well protected, thus the delivery of murano glass jewelry. Since then, many international locations have started manufacturing glass jewellery, however somehow they've failed to satisfy the high requirements of Italian murano glass jewelry.
There are lots of explanation why murano glass jewelry is different from every other sorts of jewelry. It's different due to its history, for its vibrant and exquisite colors, for its amazing patterns, for its many styled and manufacturing strategies, however most significantly it is completely different as a result of each bit is unique. Each manufacturer has his personal type of manufacturing Italian murano jewelry, which has been handed down from generation to era, so each single piece of bijou is certainly one of a kind.
Because of its uniqueness, magnificence and overall magnificence, murano jewelry is acceptable for any occasion. It may be worn with astonishing gowns, it may be worn with casual garments and it will possibly even make an awesome present fitted to a queen.
Italy is the homeland of murano glass jewellery so if you wish to feast your eyes on a number of the most lovely jewels you may ever see, that's the place to go. Nonetheless, if you are not that lucky, there are many shops that promote these beautiful works of art. They even observe wholesale murano glass jewelry. These are the best locations to go to when you want to buy a gift or simply brighten up your day.
Nonetheless, if you're a type of individuals who have little time to shop, however can still respect magnificence in the form of Italian glass jewelry, there are also online stores that can provide you this satisfaction. Most online stores even follow wholesale murano jewelry. This fashion in case you are too busy to get pleasure from an actual purchasing experience, you possibly can still make the most of the Italian craftsmanship. Online shops supply the same advantages as actual retailer and saving you precious time within the process.
So, if you wish to make your world slightly more stunning, put on murano glass jewelry. If you wish to give a present that may all the time be remembered and treasured, give Italian murano jewelry. If you want to share with others the individuality of Italian craftsmanship reap the benefits of wholesale murano glass jewelry.
Author Resource:-> To learn more about high quality murano glass lamp , visit our website at http://muranoglassvases.org
Article From Base Articles
Republished by Direct From Venice an online shop specializing in Murano and Venetian glass jewelry.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Top Things to do in Venice
By Patrick Wade
If you are looking for something to ease your spirit, to relax and unwind whilst enjoying the magnificent beauty of cultural and historical surroundings, then Venice is the place for you. A special place in Italy, Venice will steal your heart in a moment and leave you with feelings and memories to last a lifetime. The natural beauty and elegant structures have both significance and grandeur set to give you an experience to remember.
Whilst in Venice, do as the Venetians do and take in the essence and charm of this much-lived city. Why not take a visit first to the Santa Maria Giglio, situated on the west of Piazza San Marco? This sacred church is a special place of prayer and wonder. Stand in awe as you look at the entrance made of fine quality stone originating from Brac, a Croatian island. The grand and definitive sculptures at the entrance are masterpieces, creating the perfect entrance to a wonderful place.
If it is the art you are after then a visit to the Guildhall of San Rocco. It is a place where history and art walk hand in hand. This is home to the artwork of Venice’s very loved artist Tintoretto. They placed his work in a museum, made to bring your heart to a standstill. Walk through opulent surroundings as you view his 16th century work of the Old Testament.
If you want a real taste of Venetian life, then head down to Cannaregio. This is one of the six main districts of Venice located in the northern section of the city. Particularly Jewish, the city boasts of five synagogues, all with different cultural heritage. However this place is as authentic as they come, with little façade for tourists. See the Venetians going about their daily tasks and experience what life is really like, for a true Italian.
A place of huge historical significance Villa Pisani. This was one of Napoleon's residences, which was a place of meeting between Mussolini and Hitler. This was built in the 18th century commissioned by the Venetian Pisani family. It is unarguably, one of the most luxuries and beautiful Villas in the region. Sold to Napoleone I afterwards, it remains to be a masterpiece outside and within, it was said that it Tiepolo was one of the greatest artists who decorated it.
If you want a bit of live entertainment, then why to head out to St. Mark's Square, for the Goldoni Theater. So magnificent it has held court to thousands of people for hundreds of years. Exquisitely built within, it will leave you feeling like you’ve just been in a fairytale. Dedicated to the famous comedy writer 'Carlo Goldoni' it is an absolute must-see for any travelling to Italy.
The island Lido, is the perfect location to soak up the sun, walk around the outdoor markets and eat the delicious and mouth- watering foods available. This little island located between Venice and the sea, hosts the world famous Venice festival, attracting thousands of fans and holidaymakers around the world. It is highly recommended for the excellent selection of shops, restaurants and hotels.
Established in 1677 Malibran Theatre with the name "Teatro di San Giovanni Grisostomo," the Malibran Theatre is very close to Marco Polo's House. One of the most popular and widely known theaters, it attracts a loyal patronage of Venetians’ throughout the years. Famous actors, actresses and theater performers have stepped foot upon the this magnificent structure.
If you want to see some famous and significant artworks, then why not head to the Galleria Dell' Academia Venice art museum. This museum holds some of the worlds most cherished and expensive pieces of art, it is worth going just take a look at the artwork, dating back to the 14th and 18th century.
For a littler bit of romance and a view to have you in awe is The Campanile Tower or St Mark's Campanile, which is the bell tower of St Mark's Basilica, located in the St Mark's square. Up upon this architectural masterpiece, you can see upon he entire city of Venice. The views are breath taking and romantic, whether you are traveling along or as a couple.
Make sure you visit Burano, an island in the Venetian Lagoon that lies close to Torcello. This little fishing village is beautiful to visit in the day, where you can enjoy the beauty of natural surroundings. Famous for its artistically painted houses and fames in industry of lace, it is a sure experience of culture that is the perfect addition to any trip around Venice.
About the Author: Thomson Al Fresco are a family camping holidays specialist. Visit us today to find out more about Venetian Riviera Holidays, and the Pra Delle Torri holiday park.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=711412&ca=Travel
Republished by Direct From Venice an online store specializing in Murano glass jewelry.
If you are looking for something to ease your spirit, to relax and unwind whilst enjoying the magnificent beauty of cultural and historical surroundings, then Venice is the place for you. A special place in Italy, Venice will steal your heart in a moment and leave you with feelings and memories to last a lifetime. The natural beauty and elegant structures have both significance and grandeur set to give you an experience to remember.
Whilst in Venice, do as the Venetians do and take in the essence and charm of this much-lived city. Why not take a visit first to the Santa Maria Giglio, situated on the west of Piazza San Marco? This sacred church is a special place of prayer and wonder. Stand in awe as you look at the entrance made of fine quality stone originating from Brac, a Croatian island. The grand and definitive sculptures at the entrance are masterpieces, creating the perfect entrance to a wonderful place.
If it is the art you are after then a visit to the Guildhall of San Rocco. It is a place where history and art walk hand in hand. This is home to the artwork of Venice’s very loved artist Tintoretto. They placed his work in a museum, made to bring your heart to a standstill. Walk through opulent surroundings as you view his 16th century work of the Old Testament.
If you want a real taste of Venetian life, then head down to Cannaregio. This is one of the six main districts of Venice located in the northern section of the city. Particularly Jewish, the city boasts of five synagogues, all with different cultural heritage. However this place is as authentic as they come, with little façade for tourists. See the Venetians going about their daily tasks and experience what life is really like, for a true Italian.
A place of huge historical significance Villa Pisani. This was one of Napoleon's residences, which was a place of meeting between Mussolini and Hitler. This was built in the 18th century commissioned by the Venetian Pisani family. It is unarguably, one of the most luxuries and beautiful Villas in the region. Sold to Napoleone I afterwards, it remains to be a masterpiece outside and within, it was said that it Tiepolo was one of the greatest artists who decorated it.
If you want a bit of live entertainment, then why to head out to St. Mark's Square, for the Goldoni Theater. So magnificent it has held court to thousands of people for hundreds of years. Exquisitely built within, it will leave you feeling like you’ve just been in a fairytale. Dedicated to the famous comedy writer 'Carlo Goldoni' it is an absolute must-see for any travelling to Italy.
The island Lido, is the perfect location to soak up the sun, walk around the outdoor markets and eat the delicious and mouth- watering foods available. This little island located between Venice and the sea, hosts the world famous Venice festival, attracting thousands of fans and holidaymakers around the world. It is highly recommended for the excellent selection of shops, restaurants and hotels.
Established in 1677 Malibran Theatre with the name "Teatro di San Giovanni Grisostomo," the Malibran Theatre is very close to Marco Polo's House. One of the most popular and widely known theaters, it attracts a loyal patronage of Venetians’ throughout the years. Famous actors, actresses and theater performers have stepped foot upon the this magnificent structure.
If you want to see some famous and significant artworks, then why not head to the Galleria Dell' Academia Venice art museum. This museum holds some of the worlds most cherished and expensive pieces of art, it is worth going just take a look at the artwork, dating back to the 14th and 18th century.
For a littler bit of romance and a view to have you in awe is The Campanile Tower or St Mark's Campanile, which is the bell tower of St Mark's Basilica, located in the St Mark's square. Up upon this architectural masterpiece, you can see upon he entire city of Venice. The views are breath taking and romantic, whether you are traveling along or as a couple.
Make sure you visit Burano, an island in the Venetian Lagoon that lies close to Torcello. This little fishing village is beautiful to visit in the day, where you can enjoy the beauty of natural surroundings. Famous for its artistically painted houses and fames in industry of lace, it is a sure experience of culture that is the perfect addition to any trip around Venice.
About the Author: Thomson Al Fresco are a family camping holidays specialist. Visit us today to find out more about Venetian Riviera Holidays, and the Pra Delle Torri holiday park.
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=711412&ca=Travel
Republished by Direct From Venice an online store specializing in Murano glass jewelry.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Venice, Italy - A Beautiful Destination Filled With Life
by Ben Pate
Venice is one of those cities you could recognize just by looking at a picture. Venice is a city of depth; the romance, the art, and the architecture, along with the winding canals and close-fit alleys are the characteristic symbols of Venice. Venice is a city that looks a lot like it did 600 years ago, and the fragile state of the buildings is becoming all to evident, as some of the buildings are starting to get very old. So be sure to get your passport a visit soon. Click your way over to an online pass port agency, where you can get your trip started.
Online passport agencies specialize in expedited passport service, making it possible to get a new United States passport fast. Instead of having to wait months upon months for your passport to arrive to you, these websites allow you to pick a date, and it is guaranteed to arrive by the date you set.
The fact that Venice is 100% pedestrian, and therefore 0% vehicles, is a huge plus. With no cars, there's no toxic fumes in the air, creating a noxious atmosphere that is all too noticeable in some cities. Additionally, the entire city can be walked from one end to the other, meaning you won't have to use public transportation. Don't forget that walking doesn't cost anything too! The best suggested way to explore Venice is by simply wandering and getting lost. By getting a first-hand view of what Venice is really like, you gain an authentic representation of Venetian life. Of course, visiting the famous attractions is recommended too!
One of the most celebrated art forms and places to view art are Venice's beautiful churches. The most famous of these churches is St. Mark's Basilica and St. Mark's Square. Located in the Square is the Doge's Palace, the clock tower, the bell tower, and the Correr Museum, among other things. Some may view the Square as a tourist trap, but it's that way for a reason, it's a standing symbol of Venice and Venetian history.
Some regard gondola rides as just another tourist trap, but it's really something you have to do at least once. Venice is the city famous for its canals, and much of the city is on the canals, and a gondola ride will give you the view of Venice that was meant to be seen. Murano is the perfect place to get souvenirs, as its famous for its hand-blown glass.
Art is an important hub in Venice's past and present. It's definitely not hard to come by either. Of course there are plenty of museums to visit, such as The Accademia Gallery. This Gallery is dedicated to the Italian masters of art from the fourteenth to the eighteenth century. The churches are also great places to experience art, as they are covered from the floor to the roof in art.
Venice is one of those places where absolutely everything contributes to create an amazing vacation experience. Of course it's natural to want to see it all, but be sure to set aside enough time to just explore. While a regimen can be useful, don't feel obligated to stick to it. Take your time and do whatever your heart desires (gelato, anyone?).
More Information:
Visit an online passport agency to apply for your passport and have it delivered to you as soon as you want it. These sites help you to get a new passport fast, and once you have a passport, the world becomes open to you.
Source: http://www.PopularArticles.com/article249970.html
Republished by Direct From Venice, an online store specializing in Murano glass jewelry.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
All About Venice Italy
Author: Ling Tong
Venice, Italy is located in the northern part of the country and is part of the Padua-Venice Metropolitan area with a total population of 1.6 million. The city consists of 118 islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon. It was a major maritime area during the Middle Ages and the starting point for the Crusades as well as playing an important role in the silk, grain and spice trade from the 13th to the 17th centuries. It was also an important center for art during the Italian Renaissance.
Experts believe that refugees from Roman cities originally populated Venice who wanted to escape the invasions of the Germanic tribes. The Huns under Atila attacked it in the 5th century. From the 9th to the 12th centuries it developed as a city state and became a center of power and trade because of its strategic position at the head of the Adriatic. It carried out an extensive trade with the Byzantine and Muslim worlds and by the end of the 1400's it was one of the most prestigious cities in Europe. The leading families of the city competed with one another in building grand palaces and supported the works of many of the greatest artists of all time, such as Leonardo da Vinci.
Venice is famous all over the world for its canals, which are the main mode of transportation in the city. About 150 canals and over 400 bridges connect the islands. In the older part of the city, the canals form the main method of transportation and everyone gets around the island on foot. During the 19th century, the railway came to Venice and in the 20th century a causeway for vehicle traffic was built. However, beyond the entry points, you will not see any cars.
The classic Venetian boat is called the gondola and although this was used in the past, today it is mainly used for tourists and for weddings and other special occasions. Motorized waterbuses handle the traffic between the islands and there are many privately owned boats. Foot passenger ferries, called the traghetti, service those people crossing in places where there are no bridges. There are watertaxis that travel on these canals as well.
Venice is divided into six sections, called the sestieri. These sections are:
* Cannaregio
* San Polo
* Dorsoduro
* Santa croce
* San Maro
* Castello
On every gondola in the city you will see a masthead that looks like a Doge's hat. On this hat there are six notches. Five of which point forwards and one points backwards. They represent the six sections of the city, with the backwards one representing the Giudecca, which is part of the Dorsoduro.
There are numerous landmarks in the city, such as museums, palaces and churches. In the Venetian countryside, you will see many villas, which were once the homes of the rich and famous of the city. The Venice Art Biennale is one of the most important events in the world on the arts calendar. Venice Lido is a beach district only 20 minutes by boat from San Marco. This island has the nickname of "Island of Tranquility" and is the setting of the Venice movie festival.
For more information on Venice Italy,the Venice climate and Venice Italy vacations visit http://www.VeniceVacations.net
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_609860_29.html
About the Author:
Republished by Direct From Venice, an online store specializing in Murano glass jewelry.
Venice, Italy is located in the northern part of the country and is part of the Padua-Venice Metropolitan area with a total population of 1.6 million. The city consists of 118 islands in the marshy Venetian Lagoon. It was a major maritime area during the Middle Ages and the starting point for the Crusades as well as playing an important role in the silk, grain and spice trade from the 13th to the 17th centuries. It was also an important center for art during the Italian Renaissance.
Experts believe that refugees from Roman cities originally populated Venice who wanted to escape the invasions of the Germanic tribes. The Huns under Atila attacked it in the 5th century. From the 9th to the 12th centuries it developed as a city state and became a center of power and trade because of its strategic position at the head of the Adriatic. It carried out an extensive trade with the Byzantine and Muslim worlds and by the end of the 1400's it was one of the most prestigious cities in Europe. The leading families of the city competed with one another in building grand palaces and supported the works of many of the greatest artists of all time, such as Leonardo da Vinci.
Venice is famous all over the world for its canals, which are the main mode of transportation in the city. About 150 canals and over 400 bridges connect the islands. In the older part of the city, the canals form the main method of transportation and everyone gets around the island on foot. During the 19th century, the railway came to Venice and in the 20th century a causeway for vehicle traffic was built. However, beyond the entry points, you will not see any cars.
The classic Venetian boat is called the gondola and although this was used in the past, today it is mainly used for tourists and for weddings and other special occasions. Motorized waterbuses handle the traffic between the islands and there are many privately owned boats. Foot passenger ferries, called the traghetti, service those people crossing in places where there are no bridges. There are watertaxis that travel on these canals as well.
Venice is divided into six sections, called the sestieri. These sections are:
* Cannaregio
* San Polo
* Dorsoduro
* Santa croce
* San Maro
* Castello
On every gondola in the city you will see a masthead that looks like a Doge's hat. On this hat there are six notches. Five of which point forwards and one points backwards. They represent the six sections of the city, with the backwards one representing the Giudecca, which is part of the Dorsoduro.
There are numerous landmarks in the city, such as museums, palaces and churches. In the Venetian countryside, you will see many villas, which were once the homes of the rich and famous of the city. The Venice Art Biennale is one of the most important events in the world on the arts calendar. Venice Lido is a beach district only 20 minutes by boat from San Marco. This island has the nickname of "Island of Tranquility" and is the setting of the Venice movie festival.
For more information on Venice Italy,the Venice climate and Venice Italy vacations visit http://www.VeniceVacations.net
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_609860_29.html
About the Author:
Republished by Direct From Venice, an online store specializing in Murano glass jewelry.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
5 Things You Must Do In Venice, Italy
Author: James Burrows
Located in Northern Italy, Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world today that radiates romance and love throughout its streets. Known as the "city of canals" / "city of water", Venice charms every art lover and those who appreciate true beauty. So what's a must when you head to Venice?
1. Basilica di San Marco; Campanile - This is an amazing place to start of your Venice vacation with a beautiful birds eye view of the city at its finest You pay a small fee to ride to the top but its well worth it for the amazing view from the tallest bell tower in the city.
2. Piazza San Marco - Often referred to as the center of Venice, the Piazza San Marco is one of the most popular tourists' destinations today with its marvelous architecture and a little something for everyone. If you really want to make the most of your experience I suggest you visit it both during the day and at night and be prepared to be very pleasantly surprised by the beauty this Piazza and its surrounding holds. Another weird yet fun activity to try out would be pigeon feeding, located in the Piazza San Marco as well. Buy some pigeon food (sold everywhere all over the Piazza) and watch dozens of pigeons flock to you within seconds.
3. Gondola Rides - No trip to Venice is complete without a Gondola ride through the watery streets of Venice. Whether you're there as a couple or just family and friends, a Gondola Ride offers you a different view of Venice with some of the best sites seen from the comfort of your cushioned boat than anywhere else.
4. Doge's Palace - Take a tour through the gothic palace of Venice that was once considered to house the rulers of the city. Get your reservations early as this is a popular tourist activity as well, with some of the best highlights to be seen behind the closed doors and prison-tour of the Doge's Palace.
5. Grand Canal - A vaporetto boat ride along the Grand Canal is another way to see Venice by the water. The busiest canal in the city and the most important one at that, you'll find yourself at the heart of bustling life and gorgeous buildings on each side. The best part about the the boat ride is that it's pretty cheap so you can take it a few times over to indulge in the beauty of Venice.
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_587358_29.html
About the Author: Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Venice apartments in Italy & Vacation rentals apartments.
http://www.holiday-velvet.com/
Republished by Direct From Venice, an online retailer of Murano jewelry
Located in Northern Italy, Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world today that radiates romance and love throughout its streets. Known as the "city of canals" / "city of water", Venice charms every art lover and those who appreciate true beauty. So what's a must when you head to Venice?
1. Basilica di San Marco; Campanile - This is an amazing place to start of your Venice vacation with a beautiful birds eye view of the city at its finest You pay a small fee to ride to the top but its well worth it for the amazing view from the tallest bell tower in the city.
2. Piazza San Marco - Often referred to as the center of Venice, the Piazza San Marco is one of the most popular tourists' destinations today with its marvelous architecture and a little something for everyone. If you really want to make the most of your experience I suggest you visit it both during the day and at night and be prepared to be very pleasantly surprised by the beauty this Piazza and its surrounding holds. Another weird yet fun activity to try out would be pigeon feeding, located in the Piazza San Marco as well. Buy some pigeon food (sold everywhere all over the Piazza) and watch dozens of pigeons flock to you within seconds.
3. Gondola Rides - No trip to Venice is complete without a Gondola ride through the watery streets of Venice. Whether you're there as a couple or just family and friends, a Gondola Ride offers you a different view of Venice with some of the best sites seen from the comfort of your cushioned boat than anywhere else.
4. Doge's Palace - Take a tour through the gothic palace of Venice that was once considered to house the rulers of the city. Get your reservations early as this is a popular tourist activity as well, with some of the best highlights to be seen behind the closed doors and prison-tour of the Doge's Palace.
5. Grand Canal - A vaporetto boat ride along the Grand Canal is another way to see Venice by the water. The busiest canal in the city and the most important one at that, you'll find yourself at the heart of bustling life and gorgeous buildings on each side. The best part about the the boat ride is that it's pretty cheap so you can take it a few times over to indulge in the beauty of Venice.
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_587358_29.html
About the Author: Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Venice apartments in Italy & Vacation rentals apartments.
http://www.holiday-velvet.com/
Republished by Direct From Venice, an online retailer of Murano jewelry
Monday, February 7, 2011
Visiting the Venice Carnival
There are many carnivals celebrated all over the world but the Carnival of Venice is one of the best known and most visited of them all. Hundreds of thousands of tourists come to Venice during the Carnival to enjoy the amazing costumes, Venetian Masks, events, balls, parties and of course Venice's spectacular city attractions. Visiting the Carnival of Venice is easier than you might think, especially with the following useful information in hand!
When is the Carnival of Venice?
The Venice Carnival is an annual festival that's taken place every year since it was reborn in 1979 though historically the Carnival of Venice is hundreds of years old.
Like many carnivals around the world, the actual dates of the Venice Carnival are dictated by the religious calendar, depending on when Lent falls. In 2011 the Carnival of Venice will be from Saturday 26 February until Tuesday 8 March but you can work out future years by knowing that it begins on a Friday or Saturday and runs for one and a half weeks until ending on Mardi Gras (or Fat) Tuesday.
Getting to the Carnival of Venice
The city of Venice is in high demand with tourists whatever the time of year but the peak summer season and the Venice Carnival season are the most popular times. If you're planning to come along to the Carnival of Venice you should book your travel arrangements and accommodation as early as possible.
There are two airports that serve the Venice area - the Venice Marco Polo Airport, and the Treviso Airport. The Treviso Airport is good for cheaper flights to Venice but unless you want a longer transfer time you'd be better off booking a flight to Venice's Marco Polo Airport instead. From the airport you can take a water taxi to the historic centre of Venice and arrive in style!
Where to Stay in Venice
During the Venice Carnival the streets of Venice are even more vibrant than the rest of the year and there's always something going on! Staying in the heart of historic Venice puts you right in the middle of all the action giving you easy access to those events and all of Venice's other attractions. However, the centre of Venice is the most expensive place to stay and is over budget for many visitors to the Venice Carnival.
You could also consider staying on the Mainland (Terreferma) as prices of hotels are considerably cheaper here and it's easy to get over to the heart of Venice via boats and the bridge that connects the centre of Venice to the mainland.
Another option is the outlying islands of the Venetian Lagoon such as the Lido, Murano, and Burano to name just a few, and these are connected to central Venice via water buses, called vaporetti.
Venice Carnival Events
With Venice's reputation for being such an expensive city it's reassuring to know that the majority of events at the Carnival of Venice are actually free! Numerous events take place across the course of the one and a half week long Venice Carnival including performances, parties, children's events, fireworks, competitions, and of course the famous masked balls!
Most of the events that take place within the streets and squares of Venice are free to attend and you can pick up a calendar of events from the Venice tourist information centres at the beginning of your stay in Venice or check the posted schedules each day in places like St Mark's Square.
If you want to get along to one of Venice's famous masked balls then you'll need to spend some money to do so! Demand is high for these events even though ticket prices can be very high, and to really look the part you'll need to splash out on buying or renting a costume and of course a mask!
Venice Carnival Opening and Closing Parties
The opening and closing parties are usually the most popular events each year of the Venice Carnival, attracting thousands of people into the huge St Mark's Square. The Grand Opening Party will take place on the first Sunday of the Carnival of Venice, and the night ends with a spectacular fireworks show, definitely one of the highlights of the Venice Carnival for many visitors!
When is the Carnival of Venice?
The Venice Carnival is an annual festival that's taken place every year since it was reborn in 1979 though historically the Carnival of Venice is hundreds of years old.
Like many carnivals around the world, the actual dates of the Venice Carnival are dictated by the religious calendar, depending on when Lent falls. In 2011 the Carnival of Venice will be from Saturday 26 February until Tuesday 8 March but you can work out future years by knowing that it begins on a Friday or Saturday and runs for one and a half weeks until ending on Mardi Gras (or Fat) Tuesday.
Getting to the Carnival of Venice
The city of Venice is in high demand with tourists whatever the time of year but the peak summer season and the Venice Carnival season are the most popular times. If you're planning to come along to the Carnival of Venice you should book your travel arrangements and accommodation as early as possible.
There are two airports that serve the Venice area - the Venice Marco Polo Airport, and the Treviso Airport. The Treviso Airport is good for cheaper flights to Venice but unless you want a longer transfer time you'd be better off booking a flight to Venice's Marco Polo Airport instead. From the airport you can take a water taxi to the historic centre of Venice and arrive in style!
Where to Stay in Venice
During the Venice Carnival the streets of Venice are even more vibrant than the rest of the year and there's always something going on! Staying in the heart of historic Venice puts you right in the middle of all the action giving you easy access to those events and all of Venice's other attractions. However, the centre of Venice is the most expensive place to stay and is over budget for many visitors to the Venice Carnival.
You could also consider staying on the Mainland (Terreferma) as prices of hotels are considerably cheaper here and it's easy to get over to the heart of Venice via boats and the bridge that connects the centre of Venice to the mainland.
Another option is the outlying islands of the Venetian Lagoon such as the Lido, Murano, and Burano to name just a few, and these are connected to central Venice via water buses, called vaporetti.
Venice Carnival Events
With Venice's reputation for being such an expensive city it's reassuring to know that the majority of events at the Carnival of Venice are actually free! Numerous events take place across the course of the one and a half week long Venice Carnival including performances, parties, children's events, fireworks, competitions, and of course the famous masked balls!
Most of the events that take place within the streets and squares of Venice are free to attend and you can pick up a calendar of events from the Venice tourist information centres at the beginning of your stay in Venice or check the posted schedules each day in places like St Mark's Square.
If you want to get along to one of Venice's famous masked balls then you'll need to spend some money to do so! Demand is high for these events even though ticket prices can be very high, and to really look the part you'll need to splash out on buying or renting a costume and of course a mask!
Venice Carnival Opening and Closing Parties
The opening and closing parties are usually the most popular events each year of the Venice Carnival, attracting thousands of people into the huge St Mark's Square. The Grand Opening Party will take place on the first Sunday of the Carnival of Venice, and the night ends with a spectacular fireworks show, definitely one of the highlights of the Venice Carnival for many visitors!
Christopher Auriol is a traveller with an interest in European history and culture. Visit his site for more information about Venice Carnival and the Carnival of Venice Events.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Auriol
Friday, February 4, 2011
Venice - The City of Masks
By Peter Merifield
Articles Source: Venice: The City of Masks
Republished by Direct From Venice an online Venetian glass jewelry store.
Last year, during the period between about two weeks before Ash Wednesday and ending on Shrove Tuesday, I ventured to Venice to revel and make merry for their annual celebration: the Carnival of Venice. I have been to many festivals across the globe, and have thoroughly enjoyed most of them, but the Carnival of Venice is truly a party you don't want to miss!
The day I arrived in Venice was the first day of the Carnival and the streets were already bustling with masked men and women. I checked into my hotel, one of the nicer Venice hotels in the downtown district, and I immediately unpacked my costumes and masks ready, armed, and well-equipped to begin partying. All the hotels in Venice were booked and packed with revelers and you could feel the energy in the streets, imbuing the whole city with a type of magical whimsy.
Italy has a long history of masques or masked party events. Saturnalia, an Ancient Roman festival, predates the Carnival of Venice by many years; it began in 217 BC, but shares a defining quality that still permeates the modern Carnival of Venice; both festivals use masks, dress-up, and role-play to transcend the class divisions. During Saturnalia, the masters would dress up as slaves and vice-versa, and during the Carnival of Venice, roles are switched and masks create a temporary, veritable egalitarian state. Both parties relish role-play, the ability to transform, disfiguration and transfiguration, and everyone is avidly invited to join in on the festivities. North America could certainly benefit from this type of celebration in more ways than one.
I vacationed in Venice for two weeks during the Carnival of Venice, and everyday I was clothed in various costumes and masks and I happily adopted new identities based on the day, based on my fancy, and based on my costume/mask for the day. Shedding identities like a snake shedding its skin felt immensely invigorating. I would exhort any/all of my friends to try it out for themselves as it is an invariably refreshing, fun, and revitalizing experience.
The day I arrived in Venice was the first day of the Carnival and the streets were already bustling with masked men and women. I checked into my hotel, one of the nicer Venice hotels in the downtown district, and I immediately unpacked my costumes and masks ready, armed, and well-equipped to begin partying. All the hotels in Venice were booked and packed with revelers and you could feel the energy in the streets, imbuing the whole city with a type of magical whimsy.
Italy has a long history of masques or masked party events. Saturnalia, an Ancient Roman festival, predates the Carnival of Venice by many years; it began in 217 BC, but shares a defining quality that still permeates the modern Carnival of Venice; both festivals use masks, dress-up, and role-play to transcend the class divisions. During Saturnalia, the masters would dress up as slaves and vice-versa, and during the Carnival of Venice, roles are switched and masks create a temporary, veritable egalitarian state. Both parties relish role-play, the ability to transform, disfiguration and transfiguration, and everyone is avidly invited to join in on the festivities. North America could certainly benefit from this type of celebration in more ways than one.
I vacationed in Venice for two weeks during the Carnival of Venice, and everyday I was clothed in various costumes and masks and I happily adopted new identities based on the day, based on my fancy, and based on my costume/mask for the day. Shedding identities like a snake shedding its skin felt immensely invigorating. I would exhort any/all of my friends to try it out for themselves as it is an invariably refreshing, fun, and revitalizing experience.
Articles Source: Venice: The City of Masks
Republished by Direct From Venice an online Venetian glass jewelry store.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)