Salò

Let's discover Salò, on the shores of Lake Garda

Salò is an Italian municipality located in Lombardy and has a population of approximately 10,415 inhabitants. It overlooks the shores of Lake Garda and is known for both its scenic beauty and its history.

The territory

The municipality of Salò is surrounded to the west and south by the Morenic Hills and to the north by Mount San Bartolomeo. The fraction of Barbarano extends along the coast at the foot of the mountain, towards the north, bordering Gardone Riviera. To the east, Salò borders Torri del Benaco, on the shores of the province of Verona of Lake Garda. The city is located on the seismic area "benacense" and is therefore at risk of earthquakes.

Salò: history and beauty on Lake Garda

The climate

Salò has a Mediterranean climate, mitigated by the presence of Lake Garda and the Boaren, a wind that descends from the Valle Sabbia. The climate classification is zone E, 2265 degree days.

Origin of the name

The name Salò has no clear derivation. Some sources trace it back to the name of an Etruscan queen, Salodia; others link it to a lucumo named Saloo; others still to the Latin term "salodium", which indicated the halls and rooms that were rich in the villas by the lake in Roman times. A valid explanation seems to be that Salò's name originated from the fact that the city was, even in ancient times, the financial capital of the area, where an important resource such as sea salt was deposited.

History of Salò

The Roman foundation of Salò overlapped with some pre-existing settlements, probably from the Neolithic period. In the north-western area of Salò (Lugone area, now via Sant'Iago), a Roman necropolis was found in the twenties of the twentieth century, and in the seventies of the same century, a careful excavation campaign was conducted that led to the discovery of 171 tombs and the finding of various materials including an amphora now on display at the archaeological museum of Milan.

During the last years of World War II, Salò was home to some ministries of the Italian Social Republic.

What to see in Salò

Salò is a small city rich in history and scenic beauty. Among the things to see are the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata, the Palazzo Martinengo, the Palazzo della Magnifica Patria and the lakeside promenade with the marina. There are also numerous churches and public parks where you can stroll and appreciate the beauties of the city.

Conclusions

In conclusion, Salò is a city that deserves to be discovered not only for its scenic beauty but also for its ancient and recent history. Its position on Lake Garda makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the panorama, but also to do many outdoor activities such as trekking, cycling and water sports.

Chiara Russo
Wrote by Chiara Russo
Updated Monday, May 9, 2022