Mask Decoration Class in the Palazzo delle Prigioni at St Mark's Square
Discover the centuries-old art of Venetian mask-making inside one of Venice's most storied palaces.
This Venetian mask decoration workshop places you inside the historic Palazzo delle Prigioni, the former prison where the legendary Giacomo Casanova was once held, just steps from the iconic Piazza San Marco.
Working alongside an expert local artisan, you will use vivid pigments, sparkling glitters, and traditional ornamentation techniques to transform a blank carnival mask into a work of art that is entirely your own.
The one-hour session is designed for all skill levels, providing every material you need so that you can focus entirely on the creative process and the rich cultural tradition behind it.
At the end of the class, you leave with a hand-decorated souvenir that carries the spirit of Venice's most celebrated festival.
Highlights
Create your mask inside the historic Palazzo delle Prigioni, a landmark of Venetian history near St Mark's Square.
Access a full range of colors, glitters, and decorative materials provided by the workshop.
Receive personal guidance from a skilled local artisan versed in ancient Venetian mask-decoration techniques.
Take home a one-of-a-kind hand-decorated carnival mask as a meaningful cultural souvenir.
Explore a venue directly linked to Casanova's legendary story in the heart of Venice.
A compact one-hour format that fits easily into any Venice itinerary without taking the whole day.
What to Expect
Meet your artisan instructor at the entrance of the historic Palazzo delle Prigioni, located alongside the Doge's Palace near Piazza San Marco. The guide will introduce the venue's remarkable history and outline the session ahead.
Your instructor provides a brief overview of the origins and cultural significance of the Venetian carnival mask. You will learn how these masks evolved over centuries and why they remain central to Venetian identity.
The artisan demonstrates key decoration techniques using the supplied pigments, brushes, and glitters. You are encouraged to ask questions before beginning your own design.
Working at your own pace and with ongoing support from the instructor, you decorate your traditional Venetian carnival mask using the provided materials. There are no rules — each creation reflects the individual participant's vision.
Once your mask is complete, the instructor helps you with any finishing details. You leave the Palazzo with your decorated mask carefully packaged and ready to travel home with you.
What's Included and Excluded
Included
- Entry to the workshop at Palazzo delle Prigioni
- Traditional Venetian carnival mask (base)
- All decoration materials: colors, glitters, and brushes
- Guidance from an expert local artisan
- Finished decorated mask to take home
Not Included
- Transportation to and from the venue
- Food and beverages
- Gratuities for the instructor
- Travel insurance
Important Information
Ready to Create Your Own Venetian Mask?
Secure your place in this authentic mask decoration class inside one of Venice's most iconic historical buildings. Spaces are limited and availability changes quickly.
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