Tourists and Made-in-Albania Venetian Masks at Venice Carnival

TIRANA, February 1

Rio de Janeiro and Tenerife may organize the biggest carnival events in the world, but the most stylish and extravagant is currently taking place in Venice. Over three million tourists from all over the world travel to Venice during the carnival. Yet a restricted number, due to local people concerns, could be present on January 27 to celebrate ‘La Festa Veneziana’ that takes place on the first day of this annual event. For 18 days, until February 13, the canal city will open the doors to its centuries-old traditions, while the key element of celebrations is the Venetian Mask. Many shops in Venice sell traditional papier-mache masks, while others sell cheap plastic masks.
However, only a few among those three million may know that some of the best handmade masks sold in Piazza San Marco are a Made in Albania product.

You can find their place of origin in Shkodra and also visit Venice Art Mask Factory.

Amazing
“It was an amazing factory. Whole masks are handmade and creative. Also, they are really friendly. If you visit Albania, you should go there.” Erim, TripAdvisor

Stunning Variety of Masks
“This is the place. Been told is the largest factory of Venetian masks in the world. They supply 80% of the world’s market. We chose a number of masks and had them shipped to the US. All arrived safely.” Simon TripAdvisor 

The Venetian masks made in Shkodra are all crafted by hand. They combine traditional techniques with new contemporary decoration. The masks have intricate details, bright colors, fancy feathers, gold leaf, and crystals that make them unique pieces of art. The masks are exported all over the world and sold in six shops in Venice. Volto, Colombina, Bauta, Arlecchino, Zanni, Cruise Mask and many other ornamental mask models can be found at the workshop of successful entrepreneur Edmond Angoni.
Enjoy the carnival if you’re in Venice, but don’t miss the mask factory if you travel to Shkodra.

Photo credit: TripAdvisor