The Carnival usually begins eight days previous to Ash Wednesday; and finishes with Shrove-tide. During this period of general festivity the Corso, a fine street extending from the Porto del Popolo to the foot of the Capitol, is decorated with tapestry and silk hangings from every window and balcony; enlivened with military bands of music, and crowded with Masqueraders, in carriages and on foot, from two in the afternoon till sunset.