I've Succombed!

Wednesday we booked tickets to tour Scala Contarini del Bovolo.  Wikipedia says:

The Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo (also called the Palazzo Contarini Minelli dal Bovolo) is a small palazzo in Venice best known for its external multi-arch spiral staircase known as the Scala Contarini del Bovolo (literally, "of the snail").  The palazzo is located in a small, less-travelled calle (street) near Campo Manin, about half-way between Campo San Bartolo, at the foot of the Rialto, and Campo Santo Stefano.  The staircase leads to an arcade, providing an impressive view of the city roof-tops.

 

 Actually, there were a number of photo shoots going on when we were there which made for some interesting pictures.

From there, we walked to a campo (a small square) where there was a costume market.  Now, believe me, when I walked into that square, I had absolutely no intention of buying anything.  However, I spotted this amazing red velvet cape that I fell in love with and I simply had to have it.  Of course, if one owns a red cape, one also needs a hat.  I found one with a red veil that looked quite smashing.  Then came the jabot.  I was set, that is, until later in the afternoon when I spotted a red mask that should work well with it. 

So, in spite of being a bit reluctant to participate enthusiastically in the costuming side of Carnival, I guess I have to admit I am a bit hooked.  Tomorrow, I plan to "try out" my new costume.  If it doesn't work perfectly, at least I can use it at Halloween as "Little Red Riding Hood" or some sinister scarlet witch.  

 

We spent the rest of the day wandering around Venice and doing some souvenir shopping.  Of course, that is pretty easy here.  We walked back to the Rialto where we did something I like to do each time I am in Venice:  have a drink at one of the bars along the Grand Canal near the Rialto Bridge and just relax and watch the world pass by on the water - taxis, buses (the vaporetti), police boats, DHL delivery boats, private boats, construction barges, etc.  It was interesting to watch all the boats on the canal pull over as soon as they heard the siren of an oncoming ambulance. It is really no different than a regular street on "terra firma".

We had to take a photo of the waiters because they were all dressed up as jesters.  We were served complimentary Frittelle Veneziane alla Crema (Venetian Carnival Fritters with Pastry Cream) which are traditional during the event and disappear the day after it is finished.