Tuesday 17 May 2011

Serenissima - Republic of Venice


Finally back to a normal life again and that is including blogging. Sometimes life is not regular for good and bad reasons. I am out of an intense work period and dashed to Venice for unfortunately only 2 1/2 days. Venice was lovely and quite amazing. I do not know Venice very well, although my 20 years in Italy. I have been in and out quickly for a dinner date or two. My husband and I promised each other that Venice will be explored this year.


Venice is the best, at night when all the tourists are sitting down for dinner or went off for the night.  Calm water canals and dark alleys are fascinatingly romantic.


Venetian Carnival masks are intriguing and curious. The personality is wonderful.
I love them in white and hand made  from Casa del sole . 
The upper left is called Bauta and is the first mask developed in 1800 Century to hide the wearer's identity and social status. It is covering the mouth with a triangular shape, so it does not have to be removed during drinking and eating. 
 The second to the right is Medico Della Peste / The Plague Doctor , perhaps the most bizarre and recognisable of the Venetian masks. The doctor developed a herbal blend to keep in the beak to keep the plague away. Salts and aromatic plants; rosemary, garlic, juniper. 
 Could it be useful against pollution in Milano ?


This was a young school class receiving a presentation by the mask maker at Casa del sole. We stayed in and listened.


The mask really changed the personality of the young boy. 


Caffe Quadri is an important appointment in Venice. 
I prefer to stay inside and have a glass of Cartizze from Valdobbiadene. 


I would love to receive some great ideas for the next trip.
Thanks, Gunn









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