Lake Garda: an oasis of history, nature and culture
Lake Garda owes its charm to an extraordinarily mild climate. Thanks to a delicate balance of winds and currents, olive trees thrive on its shores, a typically Mediterranean crop that is not found in the Po Valley. This unique environment makes the lake the perfect destination for a day of relaxation and discovery.
Lacus Benacus: the ancient name of Lake Garda
The ancient Romans called it Lacus Benacus, and this name still survives today in places like Torri del Benaco. The current name, however, dates back to the Middle Ages, when the town of Garda became a rich trading center and took on an important role among the villages of the Riviera.
Today, Garda is a lively tourist resort overlooking the Venetian shore, known as the Riviera of Olives, precisely because of the unique cultivation that is practiced there. Among the most characteristic towns are: Peschiera, Lazise, Bardolino, Garda, Torri del Benaco, Brenzone and Malcesine.
Malcesine
Located in the northern part of the lake, almost on the border between Veneto and Trentino, Malcesine develops around its imposing Rocca Scaligera, where Goethe was imprisoned, mistaken for a spy while drawing a sketch of the castle.
Here the lake narrows more and more, and the town is home to the Museum of Natural History of Garda and Monte Baldo, with important geological, paleontological, botanical and archaeological finds.
A few kilometers to the south, in the hamlet of Castelletto di Brenzone, you can admire the ruins of an ancient manor and the striking Romanesque church of San Zeno, with 15th-century frescoes.
Torri del Benaco
Gathered around its picturesque marina, Torri del Benaco is a popular tourist destination. Its name comes from the ancient "Castrum Turrium", founded by the Romans.
Here stands a fascinating Scaliger castle from the 14th century, while further south, along the Riviera degli Ulivi, is Garda, overlooking a beautiful inlet at the foot of Mount Baldo.
In the Middle Ages, Garda became the main center of the Benacense area, to the point of giving its name to the entire lake.
Garda
Today Garda is one of the most popular destinations on the lake. Its tree-lined lakefront retains the charm of the past and leads to the ancient village, marked by the Clock Tower.
Among its historic buildings stand out:
- Palazzo Fregoso (16th century)
- The Captain's Palace
- La Losa (ancient dock)
- Palazzo Carlotti
Not far away, San Vigilio is one of the most evocative places of the Venetian Riviera Gardesana. Here, a noble family built a villa in the sixteenth century intended for meditation and literary leisure. The romantic marina can be reached both on foot and by boat.
Bardolino
With prehistoric origins, Bardolino has gone from being a small fishing village to a name known all over the world, thanks to its Bardolino DOC wine, which has brought prosperity to its inhabitants.
In addition to its winemaking tradition, Bardolino boasts important historical and artistic treasures, including:
- The church of San Zeno (Carolingian age)
- The church of San Severo, with Romanesque frescoes from the 12th century
A few kilometers away is the Camaldolese hermitage, a seventeenth-century building that testifies to the deep spirituality of these places.
Lazise
Lazise boasts a historic record: it was the first free Municipality of Italy in 983. Today it is a picturesque village, which develops around the Piazza del Porticciolo, dominated by an imposing Rocca Scaligera.
Walking along the lake, you can enjoy a splendid view of Sirmione. Don't miss:
- The church of San Nicolò, with 14th-century frescoes
- La Dogana Veneta, built in the 16th century with a large port overlooking the lake
Peschiera del Garda
Peschiera del Garda was an important stronghold of the Austrian Quadrilateral, thanks to its strategic position for controlling navigation between the lake and the Mincio river, an emissary of Lake Garda.
Its origins date back to prehistoric times, when it was inhabited by pile-dwelling populations. Today it is a point of reference for tourism thanks to its imposing fortifications and lively atmosphere.
Sirmione
Located on the southern shore of the lake, Sirmione extends over a narrow peninsula over 3 km long. This charming town preserves many historical treasures:
- La Rocca Scaligera, perfectly preserved
- The Grotte di Catullo, the remains of an ancient Roman villa, can be reached on foot or by a tourist train
Tip: visit Sirmione during the week to avoid the weekend crowds.
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