Venice was renowned for its parties during the 18th century and Venice carnival was the height of hedonism. The carnival took place each year in the weeks prior to Shrove Tuesday (February or March) with the final day being a celebration of gluttony and excess before the forty days of Lent. The tradition continues to the present day, with close to three million visitors from around the world congregating to take part in the open-air costume extravaganza. <br><br>Venice carnival is set apart from other famous carnivals in Italy by the masks; a tradition that began in the 13th century. Venetians wore masks to conceal their identity, allowing different classes to mingle and indulge in illicit activities such as gambling, clandestine affairs, political assassination, and dancing. <br><br>There are some typical masks found at Venice carnival. The bauta is a traditional Venetian mask, the name derives from the German word ‘behüten’ which means to protect. The moretta mask was originally worn by women visiting a convent; it was secured by holding a button between their teeth, which ensured a vow of silence. Modern morettas are popular because they accentuate feminine features. The medico della peste was not initially worn by festival goers, but was, in fact, worn by plague doctors to protect themselves from airborne diseases. Decorated versions of the birdlike mask are now popular at Venice carnival; attendees wear them as a remembrance of their mortality.<br>