Captured in early 2018 during the first 2 weeks of the carnival in Venice. The number of tourist feels as if Venice will sink! That is even when the winter weather is awful, raining 5 out of 7 days! In my opinion, Carnival in Greece and Germany are very enjoyable, but Carnival in Venice is unique and it is very photogenic.

Masquerade in context, is the festive gathering of persons wearing masks, and is quintessential of the Carnival of Venice. History describes the period when Venice was powerful, mask wearing is ubiquitous that it protects the wearer's identity during promiscuous or decadent activities. While mask had the social function of social equality, human nature takes advantage of identity concealment, and the society grew ever more decadent; gambling and sexual activities that extends to even monks and nuns. While Rome was initially oblivious to the city states affair so long as it contributes generously, it was outlawed by Catholic Churches after 1100, especially during religious holidays, and mask wearing were eventually restricted to the period between Christmas and Shrove Tuesday (the day before Ash Wednesday in February or March marking the first day of Lent, 40 days before Easter for the religious fasting of meat). This evolve into the present day Carnival of Venice, whereby Carnival in general are celebrated in Europe.

Huangshan

Muslim Quarter vs Jewish Quarter

an introduction

the most liberal in Europe

the iconic river across the red river

A Jewish Festival of Light