Canaro
Canaro: a small town in Veneto on the banks of the Po River
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk about Canaro, a town in the province of Rovigo located in the beautiful region of Veneto. The village, inhabited by about 2600 people, is located in the southwestern part of Polesine and overlooks the banks of the Po River.
Physical geography: hamlets and locations
This area is truly enchanting, and Canaro is no exception. The town is surrounded by other municipalities, including Frassinelle Polesine and Fiesso Umbertiano to the north, Polesella to the east, Occhiobello to the west, and Ferrara to the south, where the Po River marks the border with the Emilian province. In the territory of Canaro, there are also three hamlets, namely Paviole, Garofolo, and Vallone, and thirteen locations: Baruchella, Boccalara, Ca' Benvenuto Tisi, Ca' Matta, Ca' Mella, Ca' Ruggieri, Croce del Sud, Giaretta, La Frattina, Mezzavia, Tenasi, Valiera, and Viezze.
History of Canaro
But let's talk about some history. Although the first evidence related to Canaro dates back to the 11th century, it is thought that there was already a settlement linked to the opportunities offered by the Po River. Fishing, logging, and trade were part of the daily activities of the small community. In the Middle Ages, Polesine was part of the possessions of the counts of Canossa, which also included parts of the provinces of Mantua, Modena, and Reggio Emilia. But after the death of Matilda of Canossa, the territory came under the control of Ferrara, which administered it as Transpadana Ferrarese. In 1082, Canaro appears in a document that established the donation of the area to Gerardo di Grazioso by the archdiocese of Ferrara-Comacchio. The frequent breaks and flooding of the river caused serious damage to the territory, so much so that an important center near Canaro, Villa Lerizza, disappeared in 1168. In 1178, Canaro appeared among the possessions of the Pomposa Abbey. In the 14th century, the strategic position of the town, which allowed it to control part of the Po, led to its prosperity and its growing importance. But in 1482, the War of Ferrara (or Salt War) broke out, and Canaro was severely damaged due to its position. The city was conquered by the troops of the Republic of Venice, which governed it until the 18th century.
What to see in Canaro
But let's go to the present. If you visit Canaro, don't miss the opportunity to admire the parish church dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, which dates back to the 18th century and preserves precious works of art. Another church to visit is that of Santa Felicita and the Virgin of Sorrows, located in the hamlet of Paviole. For nature lovers, I recommend taking a walk along the banks of the Po or visiting the wetlands of Vallone, where you can admire many animal and plant species.
Typical cuisine of Canaro
If you want to try local cuisine, taste fish-based dishes such as eel risotto, fish stew, river fish fry, and creamed cod, and for dessert, the famous zaleti biscuits made with cornmeal and raisins. But don't forget the excellent local wine: the Cabernet Sauvignon of Santa Maria.
In short, Canaro is a small Venetian town that has a lot to offer: history, art, nature, and good food. If you are looking for a quiet place outside the usual tourist circuits, I absolutely recommend visiting it.
