Leisure Time and Tourism: Versilia
The Carnival of Viareggio
This marvellous celebration of “Carnivale” (considered to be one of the most famous in Italy) first took place in 1837. Originally, it was the result of an initiative proposed by a group of youngsters, but has since steadily grown in importance over the years. In 1931, it adopted the “Burlamacco” ( the jester) as its symbol – a mask designed by Umberto Benetti, which takes its name from the town’s port. After the initial sketches and scale models have been approved, 9 floats measuring up to 20m high and 6 floats measuring 9m high (15m in length) are constructed in large sheds (set aside for this particular purpose) during the months preceding the “Carnival”. The end result is quite spectacular. The floats, with over 200 figures in fancy-dress on board, wind their way though the crowd, whilst groups of musicians and folk groups weave their way amongst them.
During the Carnival of Viareggio (aka the Carnival of Italy and Europe) the days and nights are spent celebrating neighbourhood festivals, masked balls and all kinds of entertainment.
A succession of events, ranging from cultural exhibitions to all sorts of evening shows and dances in pursuit of pure fun and enjoyment help to enliven the atmosphere of merriment and light-heartedness which characterize all the carnivals throughout the world.
The Sea
From Viareggio to the ‘Gulf of the Poets’ (a reference to the English poets Byron and Shelley), the vast sandy beaches of the Versilia stretch up along the northern shores of Tuscany, to the neighbouring region of Liguria. Here, in the district known as the Cinque Terre, the rocky coastline provides lovers of underwater fishing with a myriad of subaquatic locations to be explored..
The sea, situated off the coast of Tuscany, has all the advantages of the Mediterranean. In fact, its calm waters make it an ideal spot for windsurfing, waterskiing and other aquatic sports.
The light sea breeze is perfect for sailing-boat enthusiasts, who wish to discover the bays and creeks situated to the north of the port of Marina di Carrara.
Entertainement
The nightlife of the Versilia has contributed in no small measure to the growing renown of the region. During holidays, summer months and at the weekends, thousands of people flock here to enjoy the attractions on offer.
All along the coast, between Marina di Torre del Lago and Forte dei Marmi, there are numerous discos and nightclubs which put on all kinds of shows and concerts featuring the most popular singers and entertainers. Famous venues of the area include “La Capannina” and “La Bussola”, where well-known celebrities and artists perform regularly.
For further information contact: www.aptversilia.it