Masquerades first began in the 1500s, originally known and practised at weddings and special affairs of the medieval societies. The costumed events consisted of parades and pageants for the elite of the medieval era. Although celebrating traditions with masquerade balls, the social event itself has been around since the 14th century and all throughout the renaissance. Masked balls did not come to Europe until the 17th century. It is said that John Hudegger, a swiss count, had the first masquerade ball in the 18th century. Members had exclusive invitations to participate. When attending the balls there was a strict code of conduct and behaviour which had to be followed. The most important requirement was that everyone must attend in full costume. Only the elite of society could enjoy the full throw of the party with costume fantasy. A common theme of these costumes was Greek-inspired with decorative moon and star symbols of the gods. Masks were there to create a fun mystery but also allowed members of higher society to speak and converse on controversial topics that would otherwise be impossible in the positions they held in society.