Make the most of your visit to Italy by experiencing the Viareggio Carnival which dates back to to 1873. One of the its most popular symbols is the harlequin clown, which has been featured on the festival's advertising posters since the 1930's. The official mask is called the Burlamacco and is based on this red and white clown, Other intersting sights in this carnival are the colourful floats, papier-mache puppets and fabulous selection of food. There are two methods of creating the floats, which are called the verists and the romantics. The verists decorate their floats with political commentary and satire, whilst the romantics showcase a glamourized version of legendary Italian figures.