6Masks Were Worn for Months, Not Just During Carnival

Today, masks are worn mostly during official Carnival events. Historically, however, Venetians wore masks for much longer periods—sometimes for up to six months of the year.
Masks were commonly worn during political meetings, gambling sessions, romantic encounters, and even business negotiations. They allowed people to speak more freely, bend social rules, and protect their identities in a city famous for intrigue and diplomacy.

Because masks became so deeply embedded in daily life, Venetian authorities eventually had to regulate their use, limiting when and where they could be worn.

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