Art and Culture

The lower area of Lake Garda has a long held historical importance due the many settlements that were built there to reap the benefits of its mild climate and fertile lands. This land’s rich history makes it extremely attractive for those with a passion for art and culture.

Roman period

Roman villa in Desenzano

The influence of the Roman period upon the town of Desenzano can be seen in the town’s very name, which is named after a Roman called Decentius who once owned a villa in the region. At the front of his ancient villa there is an archelogical museum (its online website will inform those who wish to visit of its opening hours etc).

Grotto di Catullo in Sirmione

Is the remains of a once important roman villa, which was believed to have been the residence of Caio Valerio Catullo (87-54BC), a celebrated Latin poet. There is a stunning view from here overlooking the lake.
For further information please call the information centre on 030916157

The Medieval fortifications

Visconteo-Veneta in Lonato

Erected around the year 1000, during the barbarian invasions and were reconstructed again by Milanese Counts in the XV century. They have been a national monument since 1912 and today house the Museo Civico Ornitologico.

Rocca Scligera di Sirmioneis

A castle whose walls and towers were designed by Mastino I from the Scala in 1259. Today it is considered one of the most complete and well-preserved castles in Italy.

The Castello di Desenzano

Was constructed on the foundations of a Roman castra (a reservation of land cut off for military use) during the late medieval period. From its privileged position visitors can find breath-taking views over the lake, which are considered some of the best of Garda. For further information please call the Comune di Desenzano.

Sacred places

Duomo di Sanata Maria Maddalena di Desenzano

Planned by Giulio Todeschini it sits on top of an ancient rural church, unfortunately it was never completed as designed. Inside the structure there is a pictorial cycle dedicated to Maria Maddalena, which was painted by Tiepolo, and considered one of the most beautiful examples of late renaissance art in the province of Brescia.

Santa Maria Maggiore a Sirmione

A beautiful example of fourth century architecture, known as the jewel inside the medieval village of Sirmione. The terracotta decorations and the structure of the apse are particularly striking.

Pieve Romanica di S. Zeno di Lonato

It is the oldest church in this area and built upon what was once the centre of the ancient settlement of Lonato. Reconstructed in the XII century upon an old church that probably dated back to the V century, the original Roman apse is preserved as well as and traces of later medieval frescos. 

Chiesa di San Lorenzo a Pozzolengo

A parish in 1510 subject to various extensions and remodeling in the 700’s. The neoclassic style with a spacious central window and imposing bronze door is particularly interesting as well as the sixth century organ and paintings by Brusasorci and Andrea celesti.