Medole
Welcome to Medole: the sub-hill town of Garda
If you're looking for an authentic destination in Lombardy, look no further than Medole. This small sub-hill town at the foot of the Morena that marks the edge of Lake Garda towards the Po Valley is the perfect place for those looking to escape the bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the peace of the Italian countryside.
Discovering Medole's physical geography
Located in the province of Mantua, Medole is part of the Garda Community and is adjacent to the municipalities of Ponti sul Mincio and Solferino in a union of municipalities called "Castelli Morenici". The town's territory borders Castiglione delle Stiviere to the northwest, Solferino and Cavriana to the northeast, Guidizzolo to the east, Ceresara to the south, and Castel Goffredo to the southwest.
Not only does the town enjoy a strategic location, but its inhabitants can also enjoy a temperate sub-continental climate, with moderate winters and foggy days, hot and rainy summers, and generally rainy springs and autumns.
The meaning of the name and the importance of history
The name Medole comes from the Latin word ''meta'', meaning pile of stones. But the town has much more to offer than just an evocative name. The presence of artifacts and inscriptions suggests the existence of a settlement organized in Latin language and culture as early as the 1st century. The first nucleus of the town took shape in the current northeast area of the settlement, where the current Romanesque church stands, built around the 10th century, perhaps on the foundations of a Roman temple.
The town also has a medieval past, and the oldest document mentioning Medole is an act dated May 31, 841, in which Ramperto donated some properties of the countryside to the Benedictine monks, including the House of San Vito. Medole was also part of the territories of Francesco I Gonzaga, who left an important mark on the town.
Life in Medole during the Renaissance
The inhabitants of Medole were divided between natives, called "uomini di comune" and Brescia immigrants, called "uomini di macina". The latter constituted the poorest part and were treated as strangers, until their descendants had reached 150 years of settlement in Medole. In 1570, the 110 families of the "uomini di macina" who complained about the harsh living conditions sent a petition to Vincenzo I Gonzaga, which was rejected, confirming the privileges of the "uomini di comune".
What to do and see in Medole
If you decide to visit the town, there are many things to see and do. The town has a unique style, combining Baroque and Gothic architecture. At the San Martino Church, you can discover the ancient baptistery of Medole, built in 1100. If you want to take a walk, head to the Castello Park, where you can enjoy an oasis of peace and tranquility.
Additionally, the town offers events that take place throughout the year, such as the antique market in late August and early September and the Jazz music festival in July.
Where to live in Medole
Medole offers a wide range of accommodation options that satisfy all tastes and needs. There are local farmhouses where you can fully immerse yourself in the Italian countryside and taste local products. For those looking for a more unique experience, you can opt for a studio apartment inside an ancient mill that will give you a unique and somewhat vintage experience.
Conclusion
In summary, the small town of Medole, with its history, architecture, and strategic location, is a place to visit at least once in a lifetime. With so much to do and see, Medole is the perfect place for those looking to escape the bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the peace of the Italian countryside. Come and discover this hidden treasure in Lombardy!
