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Unmasking Carnaval in Venice

March 1, 2000
Web posted at: 3:01 p.m. EST (2001 GMT)

VENICE, Italy (Reuters) -- Thousands of Carnaval revelers from all over the world are plugging the streets and canals of Venice, seeking their last hurrah before the March 7 arrival of Lent, the Catholic repentance season.

They're masquerading in medieval garb and masks, a centuries-old tradition that allowed aristocrats and commoners to mix. "Wearing this mask, noble families could go and gamble in the casino without risking denouncement," says Piero Marigo, a Carnaval participant.

A famous lover also proved their worth. "Casanova used this mask to meet his women everywhere," Marigo says. "The mask allowed him to conceal his identity and speak at the same time."

Copyright 2000 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.

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