LAKE GARDA GUIDE
History
Ruins, Battles, Castles and Graffiti - Lake Garda became part of the Roman empire in 300 BC and its history includes many different ruling empires. The beautiful mosaics of the 3rd century Roman villa at Desenzano are amongst the best preserved artifacts on the planet. The famous Battle of Solferino was also fought outside Desenzano.
If you want to visit the battle area and find out more about the battle of Solferino, then there is a monument at San Martino and the museum at Solferino you can visit. There is also the church of St. Peter where more than 7000 skeletal remains are kept inside the "Ossario". A Red Cross monument is also located close to the tower.
The Roman ruins of the 1st century BC Grotte di Catullo and family villa of the important Roman senator Catulla lies at the end of the spectacular Sirmione peninsula, surrounded by the glorious waters of the lake. The natural sulphur rich thermal waters that lie close to this location explains the Roman interest in building at this site. Modern travelers can still benefit from the curative powers of these waters as they are piped into buildings in Sirmione.
When visiting this town today, guests still have to gain access by the drawbridge to the impressive Rocca Scaligera castle. The third largest Roman amphitheatre was completed near the town of Verona in the year 30 AD. To this day the famous Verona opera performs here.
The Lake Garda area also features the Torri del Benarco, Medieval Malcesine, Peschiera and Desenzano castles – many of which can be linked to the Scaligeri family by their signature fishtail battlement style.
A post script – the island has ancient engravings or graffiti on rocks waiting to be discovered by travelers.
Sports
The area surrounding Lake Garda and the temperate climate lends itself to a fantastic variety of active sports including 18 hole golf courses, yachting and sailing as well as windsurfing, mountain biking and trekking.
Whether you would like to try a new activity or perfect your skills the Lake Garda operators cater for all comers.
All the activities benefit from the magical backdrop of the stunning surroundings and spectacular views.
Entertainment
Gardaland is one of the most popular theme parks in Europe and it lies in Castelnuovo del Garda near Pescheria del Garda – enjoy the many marvels of six roller coasters and 32 rides.
The town of Sirmione is known for its thermal baths at Catullo. Since Roman times hundreds have sworn by their healing properties.
The historic cities of Verona (with the Roman Arena and the Opera), Venice (one of the most romantic cities on earth) and Brescia (religious monuments, castles and fabulous restaurants and bars) are easily reached from the Ramada Lake Garda.
