How Did the City with an Official Gondola Become the Capital of Italy in Brazil?

Written by Carla Teles

Published on 04/07/2025 at 00:08

Descubra Nova Veneza (SC), a Capital da Gastronomia Italiana. Veja a gôndola oficial, o carnaval de máscaras e a forte economia deste pedaço da Itália no Brasil. Imagem: Turismo Nova Veneza

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From Grandma’s Polenta to a Strong Industrial Economy, Discover the Secrets That Made Nova Veneza the National Capital of Typical Italian Gastronomy and an Example of Prosperity.

In the south of Santa Catarina, a city transformed its Italian heritage into a motor of prosperity. Nova Veneza is not just a tourist destination; it is a success story that unites culture, gastronomy, and a surprisingly strong economy, proudly holding the title of National Capital of Typical Italian Gastronomy.

A Legacy of Resilience and Tradition

The city’s identity was forged by Italian immigrants who arrived in 1891, forming the first official colony in Brazil after the Proclamation of the Republic. This cultural foundation was so strong that, to this day, over 95% of the population is of Italian descent, and many still speak the Talian dialect. The city celebrated its political emancipation on June 21, 1958, a date that is now the heart of its main festival.

The Flavor That Conquered a Nation

Cuisine is the pillar of Nova Veneza. Dishes such as polenta with stewed chicken, fortaia (rustic omelette), and minestra are served in over 20 restaurants. The authenticity comes from family farming, organized in the Coofanove cooperative, which ensures fresh and local ingredients. This commitment to tradition has earned official recognition. First, the title of “Santa Catarina Capital of Typical Italian Gastronomy” and, in 2018, the highest accolade with federal law that made it the “National Capital of Typical Italian Gastronomy”.

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Icons That Unite Brazil and Italy

Nova Veneza is where the soul of Italy meets the heart of Brazil, transforming heritage into gastronomy and tradition into future. Image: Turismo Nova Veneza

The connection to Italy is visible in its landmarks. The most powerful of these is the Gondola Lucille, which is one of the four only official gondolas donated by Venice that are located outside Italy. Another key icon is the Stone Houses, built starting in 1891 with basalt stone and clay; today, they are listed as National Historical and Architectural Heritage. Finally, the Entrance Portal welcomes visitors, crowned by a 400 kg Lion of Saint Mark, an official gift from the Veneto region.

The Surprising Strength of the Economy

Despite its gastronomic fame, Nova Veneza’s economic engine is industry, responsible for 64.5% of formal jobs, with notable sectors being food, metallurgy, and textiles. The Seara (JBS) unit, for example, employs about 1,400 people. This strength is reflected in impressive numbers, such as the per capita GDP of R$ 69,255.25 (in 2021), a value that easily surpasses the state average. Additionally, efficiency is a differential, with an average time to open a business of only 12 minutes.

Festivals That Celebrate Life

The city celebrates its identity with large annual events in June. The main one is the Typical Italian Gastronomy Festival, which combines cuisine with the celebration of the city’s anniversary. The highlight of this festival is the spectacular Carnevale di Venezia, considered the largest mask carnival of its kind outside Italy, attracting thousands of tourists with parades of over 500 revelers in sumptuous costumes.

Visiting Nova Veneza is, therefore, witnessing how a community used its past as a foundation to build a prosperous present and a promising future, proving to be an authentic and successful piece of Italy in Brazil.

How Did the City with an Official Gondola Become the Capital of Italy in Brazil?

From Grandma’s Polenta to a Strong Industrial Economy, Discover the Secrets That Made Nova Veneza the National Capital of Typical Italian Gastronomy and an Example of Prosperity.

A Legacy of Resilience and Tradition

The Flavor That Conquered a Nation

Icons That Unite Brazil and Italy

The Surprising Strength of the Economy

Festivals That Celebrate Life

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How Did the City with an Official Gondola Become the Capital of Italy in Brazil?

From Grandma’s Polenta to a Strong Industrial Economy, Discover the Secrets That Made Nova Veneza the National Capital of Typical Italian Gastronomy and an Example of Prosperity.

A Legacy of Resilience and Tradition

The Flavor That Conquered a Nation

Icons That Unite Brazil and Italy

The Surprising Strength of the Economy

Festivals That Celebrate Life

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