Garda
Welcome to Desenzano del Garda: a charming city on Lake Garda
If you are looking for a place to include in your list of places to visit in Italy, we suggest the beautiful city of Desenzano del Garda, located in the province of Brescia in Lombardy. With a population of around 29,108 inhabitants, Desenzano del Garda is the most populous municipality on Lake Garda, the largest Italian lake.
Physical geography
The city is located in the southeastern part of the province of Brescia, with the northern part facing the lower Lake Garda and the rest of the territory extending on the morainal hills to the south. The municipality borders the province of Verona, precisely with the municipality of Peschiera del Garda, only 30 km from Brescia and 40 km from Verona.
Climate
The proximity to Lake Garda means that the climate of Desenzano del Garda is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures in January of +3.0°C and in July of +23.4°C. Thanks to the presence of the lake, the climate of the city is different from that of the Po Valley, where a humid temperate climate prevails.
The history of Desenzano del Garda
Origins of the name
The original name of the city was "Desenzano" until 1862, when a decree renamed it "Desenzano sul Lago". In 1926, another decree made it become "Desenzano del Garda" and, at the same time, the territory of the now-defunct municipality of Rivoltella del Garda was aggregated. It is supposed that the name "Desenzano" derives from the Latin "Decentius", the alleged owner of the farm and the Roman Villa of Desenzano del Garda of the 4th century, whose area is still visible.
Prehistoric and Roman era
In 1873, archaeological excavations conducted in the Polada locality confirmed the existence of settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. In addition, near the Lavagnone locality, the remains of a contemporary settlement were discovered, which entered the World Heritage list in 2011. Between the 1st century BC and the 1st century AD, a "farm" inhabited by about a hundred people arose near the city. The Roman Villa of Desenzano del Garda was built between the 2nd and 3rd centuries, along the Gallic road.
Middle Ages
Between the 5th and 9th centuries, Desenzano del Garda became an important commercial locality thanks to its strategic position on the salt road between Friuli and the center of the Peninsula. During the Military Anarchy, the Roman Emperor Decius defeated the troops of Philip the Arab in 249 and the following year stopped on the shores of Lake Garda before heading to Thrace to fight the Goths.
Modern era
During the Renaissance period, Desenzano del Garda was affected by the war between the Republic of Venice and the Duchy of Milan. In 1516, the city was invaded by French troops and its port became a naval base.
Contemporary era
In the 19th century, the city became an important tourist center thanks to the beauty of the landscape and the construction of a railway that connected Desenzano del Garda to neighboring cities. In 1874, the city was visited by Queen Margherita and, subsequently, also by many artists and intellectuals.
What to see in Desenzano del Garda
The Castle of Desenzano del Garda
The Castle of Desenzano del Garda is located in the oldest part of the city, on top of the hill. Built in the 10th century for defensive purposes, the castle soon became a military fortress. Over the following centuries, the castle underwent various interventions that changed its appearance, until it was re-sited in the 17th century in Baroque style. Today, the castle hosts events, exhibitions, and concerts.
The Civic Tower
The Civic Tower of Desenzano del Garda is located in the historic center of the city and represents its symbol. Built in the 9th century, the tower underwent numerous interventions that changed its height. In 2007, the Civic Tower was renovated, restoring its original height and making it accessible to the public once again.
The Old Port
The Old Port of Desenzano del Garda is located in the oldest part of the historic center and is one of the most suggestive places in the city. The port was the heart of the city's commercial activity during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Today, the Old Port offers a wide choice of restaurants and bars for romantic or fun evenings.
The archaeological area of Desenzano del Garda
The archaeological area of Desenzano del Garda is very interesting and presents numerous sites that testify to the ancient history of the city. Excursions in the Archaeological Park of Desenzano del Garda and the visit to the Roman Villa are particularly recommended.
The cuisine of Desenzano del Garda
The cuisine of Desenzano del Garda is characterized by the use of local products, such as lake fish, polenta, rice, and asparagus. The "Risotto alla pilota" is an absolute must-try, a typical dish of the local tradition, based on rice, Luganega sausage, wine, tomato, and cheese.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Desenzano del Garda is a charming city that offers a wide choice of activities, historical sites, and gastronomic options. If you decide to visit this city, you will be surrounded by beautiful landscapes and a long history. We hope to have provided you with all the useful information for a visit to discover Desenzano del Garda.
