Canale, the picturesque village of Trentino

The village of Canale, located in the enchanting Valle di Tenno, owes its name to the abundance of water present since the early Middle Ages, which shaped its settlement. The history of the place dates back to the 4th–5th centuries BC, when the Rhaetians were the first inhabitants, followed by the Romans on the fortified site of Monte San Martino. In 771, Canale appears in a document as “in vico Prantio,” the first toponymic mention of the Alto Garda area. Between 1439 and 1479, the village experienced legendary events such as the siege by Captain Piccinino and the restorations carried out by Bishop Giovanni Hinderbach. In the following centuries, Canale was the stage of significant historical episodes, until its reconstitution in 1929 as a single municipality together with Tenno, Pranzo, Cologna-Gavazzo, and Ville del Monte.

What to see in Canale 

Canale di Tenno is a rural village of medieval origin, documented since 1211, which has preserved its historic structure intact. The village is distinguished by its characteristic barrel vaults, narrow alleys, underpasses, and wooden balconies marked by time. Along the road to Calvola, a panoramic terrace hosts the statues of the “Vicinia,” symbol of the collective management of community assets. In the surroundings, the hamlet of Frapporta, in Tenno, preserves its medieval walls and terraced houses on the rock of San Lorenzo, overlooking the plain and Lake Garda. Outside the walls are the 17th-century turret, the old fountain, and a Roman tomb. The small church of San Lorenzo (12th century) houses important frescoes, including the Last Judgment of 1384. Also noteworthy are the archaeological sites of Monte San Martino, evidence of Rhaetian and Roman settlements, and the church of San Giovanni Battista in Calvola. The agricultural terraces, such as those of Mattoni and Fontanelle, enrich the landscape, while Monte San Pietro offers breathtaking views and an atmosphere of serenity over the Sarca Valley and Lake Garda.

Events in the village

 The village of Canale comes alive throughout the year with events that celebrate its history, culture, and traditions. During Rustico Medioevo, in the first half of August, tourists and residents take part in ten days of good food, folklore, and culture, enjoying the typical polenta e peverada. In October, in Pranzo, the Chestnut Festival offers tastings and sales of local chestnuts. On Advent weekends, the Christmas Market transforms the village with local products, crafts, and, on December 26, an evocative living nativity scene with traditional trades of the past.

Cover photo credits: essevu