Gnocolar Friday
It is one of the oldest carnivals in Italy, dating back to 1531. Its charm lies in the historical masks, including the Duke of Pignata, Prince Roboano, King Saltucchio and other figures that revolve around the coronation of the Papà del Gnoco, or the King of the Veronese Carnival.
The Veronese Carnival begins immediately after Epiphany and reaches its peak on Gnocchi Friday, which precedes Mardi Gras.
Friday Gnocolar is the day of the triumph of the Father of the Gnoco and opens with the parade of floats that crosses the center of Verona and the district of San Zeno, where the Veronese carnival originated. The party ends with the distribution of Veronese gnocchi, a symbol of abundance and a return to well-being.
The Bacanal
The Bacanal is a popular tradition that has its roots in a historical event of 1530. In that year, a severe famine caused an exceptional increase in flour prices and the bakers, called pistori, refused to sell bread. A popular uprising ensued, with bakeries being stormed.
The inhabitants of the San Zeno district were among the most affected and active in the riots. To calm the situation, a group of wealthy Veronese decided to provide free distribution of wheat and flour to the population.
Tommaso da Vico
Among these benefactors was the noble doctor Tommaso da Vico, who on the last Friday of Carnival organized the free distribution of butter, flour, cheese and wine. His will was also expressed in the will, and so every year the tradition has been repeated.
Gnocchi: a dish or a debate?
Originally, the event was called Venerdì Casolar, in reference to butter and cheese, considered symbols of abundance. Later, with the arrival of the potato from the Americas, gnocchi began to be prepared in the version we know today, based on potatoes, butter and cheese.
And speaking of gnocchi... the Veronese say "i gnocchi", while "gli gnocchi" is Italian!
So, see you in Verona for Gnocchi Friday... and gnocchi galore!
Information
To learn more or book a guided tour, write to me at info@guideverona.net or call 3398875599.
