Legend has it that some time back in the tenth century, twelve Venetian brides-to-be were kidnapped by pirates. A few hours later, a posse of Venetians got hold of the pirates, killed them on the spot, and brought the women back to safety. Ever since, the Republic of Venice imposed a tax on patricians to fund dowries for girls of less than fortunate backgrounds. This is remembered today with a parade of twelve Venetian beauties in historical garments.
Ph. (archive) Marie Carnevale 2022
