Decorate your own Venetian Carnival mask inside the historic prison where Casanova was once held. This one-hour artisan-led class pairs traditional techniques with hands-on instruction and a tangible souvenir to take home.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step through a heavy, carved doorway and the light from Piazza San Marco softens; inside, vaulted rooms smell faintly of old wood and pigment. The former prison rooms where Giacomo Casanova once strode—then schemed and escaped—now host a quieter kind of craft: Venetian mask decoration. The atmosphere is intimate, the air punctuated by the scratch of brushes and the faint sparkle of gilding.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion; suitable for most people who can stand or sit for an hour
Wildlife
History
The prisons in the Doge’s Palace, associated with Casanova’s famous 18th-century imprisonment and escape, sit adjacent to the civic heart of Venice and reflect the city’s complex civic rituals.
Conservation
Venice’s architecture and lagoon environment are fragile; minimize waste, use refillable bottles and respect restricted areas to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Carnival Mask Decoration Class at Casanova's Prisons today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for paint
Wear or bring a shirt you don’t mind getting speckled — some pigments and glues can stain fabric.
Arrive early to beat crowds
Piazza San Marco fills quickly; arrive 15 minutes before your slot to navigate lines and security.
Pack a small bag
Bring a compact tote for your finished mask and any purchases; large suitcases aren’t practical in the narrow streets.
Carry cash for local fees
Non-resident visitors may need to pay a daily city access fee on certain dates — keep a small amount of euros handy.
Clothing you don’t mind staining
Protects your clothes from paints, glues and gilding dust during hands-on decoration.
Reusable tote or small bag
Useful for carrying your finished mask through Venice’s crowded streets.
Compact camera or phone
For quick photos of the workshop and your finished piece—be mindful of others and fragile interiors.
Light scarf or layer
Venice’s interiors can be cool from sea air; a small layer keeps you comfortable without bulk.
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