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Papà del Gnoco

Papà del Gnoco (The Gnocchi Father) is the main character of the Verona Carnival. He is depicted as elderly, ruddy man with a long white beard, dressed in hazelnut-coloured brocade and a cape, a red top hat with bells attached, a hat, and white leather shoes. Since he is considered the king of the “Bacanal del Gnoco”, his sceptre is a large golden fork, pierced with potato gnocchi. He rides astride a mule (gnocchi are traditionally eaten with “pastissada de caval”, or horse stew). During the parade, he and his servants (the “gobeti” or "macaroni") dispense candy for the children and portions of gnocchi for the adults. Born in the ancient San Zeno neighbourhood, near the famous basilica, he was traditionally elected from among its inhabitants. For several years now, however, any citizen of Verona has been able to run for the office. On Election Sunday, anyone can vote and be rewarded with a plate of tomato gnocchi.