Canda

The gnocchi of the patron saint

On the banks of the river Tartaro, which from this point takes the name of Canalbianco, stands the small village of Canda. Its name apparently derives from the Etruscan word can-da,"place of rest". It is the ideal destination, being surrounded by many interesting places for tourists to visit, such as navigable canals, beauty spots, churches and castles.

In Canda you will also find a historic villa, left in a state of disrepair for many years but now privately owned. It is called Villa Nanni Mocenigo, and is a 19th-century residence with a rather austere aspect, surrounded by large gardens guarded by the stone statues of the Berici Hills.

In late September, Canda hosts a curious six-day festival, dedicated to Potato Gnocchi. The event kicks off at about 7.30 in the evening, with a host of stalls selling crafts and typical produce, accompanied by music, games, folklore performances and shows. Visitors can also enjoy the delicious gnocchi, served at the large covered stands in the main square. The gnocchi can be enjoyed with ragout, pumpkin purée, cheese, porcini mushrooms - or even in the dessert version, with sugar and cinnamon. At the festival of St Michael Archangel, the town's patron saint, gnocchi of every shape and size are served up with other traditional dishes. You'll be sure to hear the local saying “ridi ridi che Canda ha fatto i gnocchi” ("Laugh, laugh, Canda invented the gnocchi".