Friday, February 20, 2009

Carnevale Verona






I was told that for a real Carnevale experience I need to go to Venice.  But I don't really do crowds and I was also told that Carnevale in Venice would be heaving.

So instead I decided to stay in Verona.  The History of Carnevale is simple.  In 1531 following poor harvests, a chap in Verona left money in his will to provide Gnocchi to the people of San Zeno.  He is now a legendary hero known as Papa Gnoccho.  Now I love Gnocchi so he is definately my hero.

Fortunately today was a beautiful winters day with no clouds and a good strong sun shining through - still cold though.  I finished work early for once and went straight to Piazza Bra thinking that I would miss that start, watch the floats for an hour and leave.  I was very wrong!!

I stood outside for 4 hours watching the most incredible floats.  What I found the best was that it was a real party atmosphere.  The Veronese can be a bit stiff, but they were really letting their hair down and having fun.

Now I am shattered and I am going to have an early night after a bit of time in front of the TV.

I'm not going to write any more, I'm going to let the photos do the talking.  I had a great time.

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