Stefano Mastini, also known as “Masto,” was elected as the 495th Papà del Gnoco, receiving 2,450 votes out of 6,495. Over 5,000 voters participated in the traditional election held on January 19, 2025, at Piazza San Zeno. Masto was chosen over Karim Grigoli (nicknamed “Mister”) and Andrea Bastianelli (nicknamed “Bisteca”). He was awarded the coveted “plate of gnocchi,” marking his formal title.
Who is the Papà del Gnoco?
The Papà del Gnocco is an iconic figure of the Verona Carnival, representing abundance and joy. Historically, the title was reserved for residents of the San Zeno neighborhood, but today, the requirements are less stringent. However, applicants must still be true Veronese. The official coronation was held this morning, January 22, at the Palazzo della Gran Guardia.
A tradition rooted in history
The Papà del Gnocco origins date back to the 16th century when Verona suffered a devastating famine caused by the flooding of the Adige River and the plundering of the Lanzichenecchi mercenaries. In 1531, during a time of desperation and unrest, a citizen named Tommaso da Vico stood out for his generosity. Using his resources, he distributed food and essentials, including gnocchi—then made from water and flour rather than potatoes—to those in need.
In recognition of his selflessness, da Vico is celebrated as the precursor of the Papà del Gnocco. The tradition became firmly established with the custom of serving steaming gnocchi on the Pietra del Gnocco, a stone table located in front of the Basilica of San Zeno, on the final Friday of Carnival, known as Venerdì Gnocolar.
How to became Papà del Gnoco?
Becoming the Papà del Gnocco is no small feat. The path to the throne requires organizational skill, charisma, and a touch of theatrical flair. The election campaign is meticulously planned, beginning with the creation of a proper electoral committee. Each candidate surrounds themselves with a trusted team, including a president, a secretary, and a treasurer, supported by a group of galoppini (campaign aides) dedicated to securing votes.
Applicants must submit their candidacy to the notary by a deadline. The Senate of the Papà del Gnoco, made up of former titleholders, will then assess it. Only after Senate approval can the true campaign begin, which will evolve into a humorous yet fiercely competitive race.
A theatrical campaign
The campaign unfolds in two parts: planning and theatrics. Initially, candidates pretend to have weak and chaotic campaigns, lulling their opponents into complacency. Meanwhile, the galoppini use persuasion skills to obtain information on other candidates’ schemes, frequently acting as allies.
Once tactics are finalized, the candidates seek alliances with other committees and ramp up their propaganda efforts through posters and public actions to rally support. The campaign culminates on election day, an intense and festive occasion.
The Day of Truth
The elections for Papà del Gnocco are conducted with the solemnity of official voting. After the polls close, candidates retreat to secret locations, leaving a trusted aide in the square to monitor the vote count and relay updates. By late afternoon, amid widespread enthusiasm and public celebration, the new Papà del Gnocco is announced. From that moment, he becomes the face of the Verona Carnival.
