Lonato del Garda: Fortress, Stilt Dwellings and Local Life

The Basilica di San Giovanni Battista in Lonato was rebuilt from 1732 onwards, with interruptions, and consecrated in 1780. The Chiesa di Santa Maria del Corlo has origins dating back to the 14th century. This places two different historical periods side by side for you: a building history extending into the 18th century and another connection with origins in the 14th century. Anyone interested in architecture will find a clear introduction here to Lonato’s historical themes.

The Rocca between Lake Garda and the town center

The Rocca di Lonato del Garda is located in the vicinity of Lonato and rises on a hill in the moraine amphitheater. On one side, it overlooks the southern part of Lake Garda; on the other, the historic town center. It is a fortification primarily serving military and defensive purposes. Almost 180 meters long and approximately 45 meters wide on average, it is one of the most impressive fortifications in Lombardy. It can be reached from the south through a gate and drawbridge; paths and walkways lead through the large park to this entrance.

Archaeology, sightseeing and Italian birdlife

At the Fornaci Romane, guided tours are offered at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. during opening hours and are included in the admission price. The Lavagnone pile-dwelling settlement is one of 111 prehistoric pile-dwelling settlements in the transnational UNESCO World Heritage site network “Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps,” which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. The Museo civico ornitologico “G. A. Carlotto” comprises around 700 specimens that represent Italian birdlife almost in its entirety. This allows you to differentiate your cultural focus: the Fornaci Romane stand for a guided tour, Lavagnone for the prehistoric heritage of the Alpine region, and the museum for engaging with Italian birdlife.

Market day and culture in the surrounding area

A weekly market takes place in Lonato del Garda on Piazza Martiri della Libertà every Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Casa del Podestà has set visiting hours each day: from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Fondazione Ugo da Como museum is located in the vicinity of Lonato. This allows you to take different rhythms and a nearby destination into account when planning your day. When choosing a hotel, you can first decide whether you would prefer to structure your days around Thursday, historic buildings or a visit to the surrounding area.

More destinations

For your further travel planning: Castegnato, Lavenone, Erbusco, Ghedi, Artogne, Gaino, Gavardo and Cunettone Di Salo.

To the higher-level travel overview: Brescia.