The Venice Carnival (or Carnevale) which dates back to the 15th century, is still famous today, attracting tourists from all around the world to the colour and excitement of this ancient tradition. The Venetians were allowed to wear masks for almost three month a year, from St. Stephans Day, December 26, until the last day of Carnival, Shrove Tuesday. It therefore lasted more than two months. It was the most sumptuous and extravagant carnival in the world, but the incredible thing is that it made up only a part of the period in which mask wearing was permitted.