Carnival is one of the most important events in Venice, even though in the past masquerades took place all year round. There were, in fact, many occasions for fun and entertainment: at parties, dances, and in love encounters because masks guaranteed anonymity and, therefore, maximum freedom. Made of leather and papier-mâché, not plastic and ceramic; to be worn, not to be hung on the wall: this is how the true traditional Venetian masks can be recognized. Their original function was not so much to show off or amaze, but to disguise men and women, allowing transgression. In Venice there is a great tradition of ancient artisans "maschereri", but also historical tailor's shops that produce, with precious fabrics, exclusive garments for opera, prose and ballet theaters all over the world, as well as film and television studios.