Castellaro
Castellaro Lagusello: an enchanted village on the lake
Castellaro Lagusello is a charming hamlet of the municipality of Monzambano, located on a small hill overlooking the heart-shaped lake that surrounds it. The village takes its name from the castle dating back to the 11th-12th century that was built to protect the surrounding territory from enemy incursions.
Origin of the name
The name Castellaro Lagusello derives from "Castellaro" which means "fortification" and "Lagusello" which means "small lake" in the Upper Mantuan dialect.
History
The first mention of the village dates back to 1145, in a document by Pope Eugenio III who mentions it as "plebem de Castellaro". The castle was long contested by the Mantuan marquises of the Gonzaga in the 15th century, but the Republic of Venice managed to seize the fortress through the podestà of Peschiera del Garda. In 1637, the Republic of Venice sold the castle at auction to Count Madernino Arrighi for 545 ducats. After the Napoleonic domination, the village was annexed to the municipality of Monzambano in 1803 and this Lombard location was confirmed by the Austrians in 1816.
Monuments and places of interest
Castellaro Lagusello boasts numerous monuments and places of interest, including the Castle, the Oratory of San Giuseppe and the Villa Arrighi from the 17th century. The archaeological site of Fondo Tacoli, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, is a testimony to the prehistory of the place. The Natural Reserve Complex morenico di Castellaro Lagusello is a protected area of great natural interest.
Castle of Castellaro Lagusello
The Castle of Castellaro Lagusello stands at the top of the hill and dominates the village and the lake below. The castle is trapezoidal in shape with four corner towers and an internal courtyard. Over the centuries, the castle has undergone numerous restoration works but has preserved its medieval atmosphere intact.
Oratory of San Giuseppe
The Oratory of San Giuseppe, located inside the village, is a building dating back to the 18th century. Its façade is characterized by a portico with round arches and a large central window.
Villa Arrighi
Villa Arrighi, located at the foot of the village, is a noble residence from the 17th century. The villa has a two-story façade with a portico with arches. The property is surrounded by a large park with centuries-old trees and manicured lawns.
Archaeological sites
The palafitticolo site of Fondo Tacoli is a testimony to prehistoric life near the lake. The site consists of a series of pile dwellings dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. The site has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage.
Natural areas
The Natural Reserve Complex morenico di Castellaro Lagusello is a protected area of great natural interest. The reserve covers an area of about 60 hectares and includes woods, wetlands and hills. The flora and fauna of the reserve are of great environmental value.
Conclusions
Castellaro Lagusello is an enchanted place, located among the hills of the Mantuan area. The fortified village, the castle and the other historic buildings represent a cultural heritage of inestimable value. The heart-shaped lake is a very suggestive attraction and the Natural Reserve Complex morenico di Castellaro Lagusello is an area of great natural beauty. A visit to Castellaro Lagusello is an experience not to be missed for those who want to discover the charm of the Mantuan countryside and its millennial history.
