Lovere (BG) - Lago d`Iseo

Lake Iseo
A gem of rare beauty and wonderful facets which reflect the
blue sky and red sunsets of summer: set in a precious crown of
mountains and hills scattered with ancient engravings and color
schemes. We do not talk of a jewel, we are on Lake Iseo, where
you can lose yourself in the magic of ancient villages, ampoules
of fragrances and flavors from the kitchens of restaurants where
the picturesque voluptuous taste of traditional cuisine is capable
of changing the fortunes of the day. The popular Casoncelli, hand
made ravioli from Brescia area, served with melted butter and
sage, as well the baked Tinca (lake tench) served with polenta,
a renowned local dish celebrated annually in July in Clusane
d’Iseo. Fish specialties include also the golden perch fillets, as
well the grilled whitefish and other delicacies. All accompanied
by the noble wine Franciacorta. Still enchanted by this festive
banquet, get ready to lose your exceeding calories by cycling over
arduous climbs and steep slopes on Europe’s largest lake island,
Montisola, the pearl of Lake Iseo. If you love birdwatching equipe
a slight binoculars and join the Reserve Bog: a wetland made
of reeds and stretches of water as one of the most important
natural paradises in Europe, with 17 species of birds nesting
there. For those who want to discover the history and culture
of this area, the proposals are varied. Do not miss visiting the
ancient churches and monasteries where the darkness envelops
the visitor while the colors of the frescoes narrating the events
of the Blessed Saints. hose with trained legs can still get lost
among the enchanted places of Franciacorta, restless earth and
made dream of castles and vineyards that produce over 120
wine labels. Our trip around the lake still going since the silent
valley of Riva di Solto, on the lakeside Bergamo, then risk the
arduous climb that leads to Fonteno. A must is the visit of the
Abyss Buena Fonteno: a tunnel of 17 km with a vertical drop of
500 meters.
And if you still don’t want to stop, get ready to indulge in the
ritual of the aperitif in one of the bars along the lake: a good wine
glass served with delicious canapès and various tastes will start
your evening off , while souls are lulled by the music concerts or
events that give spectacular moments of extreme relaxation.
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Bergamo Coast
The territory around this coast of the lake Iseo has some unique
and sensational panoramas, like the Valle del Freddo (the cold
valley), a phenomenon without any comparison throughout
Europe. In the higher part of the valley Val Cavallina, at 360
metres above sea level, immediately after the lake Gaiano, in the
territory of the municipality of Solto Collina there is a depression
of 600 metres; the particular structure of the territory makes that in
winter big ice blocks can be formed. In summer the wind passes
through these blocks and comes out of numerous holes in the soil
of the bottom of the valley, which creates a very low temperature
(2-4 degrees). The microclimat in this small valley has created a
vegetation more likely to be found in high mountain climates like
the “stella Alpina”. The “Pozzo Glaciale” is another phenomenon
that is particularly worthwhile: on the coast between Predore and
Tavernola is a impressing cascade to be found that finishes into a
chasm has created a hole into the rocks of at least a few tenfold
of metres. From the east coast it is easy to reach the lake Endine,
following the signals from Riva di Solto or from Lovere. The Lake
Endine is to be found in one of the most beautiful valleys of the
valleys of the province of Bergamo: the Val Cavallina. The villages
around the lake are: Monasterolo, Endine , Spinone al Lago, San
Felice and Ranzanico. At Monasterolo there is a fine castle from
the Middel Ages with a beautiful garden.
SARNICO
Sarnico is the locality situated
most to the south of the Sebino;
there where the lake turns into
the river Oglio. It is here where
the coasts of Bergamo and that
of Brescia come together at
a distance of only 80 metres.
A highly tourist area with
beautiful and typical buildings
facing the ‘piazza’s’ at the lake.
On these squares you’ll find
restaurants, various cafe’s and
bars. Sitting outside the visitor
can meanwhile enjoy a nice
feeling small breeze coming
from the lake. On the lake side
near ‘piazza xx settembre’, under
the shadow of the trees, one
finds a small playground with
attractions for children. From
‘piazza Besenzoni’, following ‘via
Lantieri’, the main thoroughfare
of the historic centre, one finds
oneself in the middle of the
medieval testimonies: the
pinacoteca Gianni Bellini.
Situated within the palace
Gervasoni which once was a
convent; the medieval tower
in ‘Via Buelli’, the former
municipality of Sarnico, a
building with arcades in
‘vicolo Tours’. Inside many
decorations and paintings
among which the valuable
painting
that
represents
‘San Martino e l’imperatore
tourist port, from eparture
point “Molo E5” there are daily
connections to Montisola and
the other localities of the lake.
Weekly market-day: Thursday.
Just above the centre of
Sarnico, at a 400 m height in
a panoramic position towards
the lake lays the walking path
Forcella. From the parking
place of the postal office in
‘Corso d’Europa’, taking the
‘via Faletto’ and after that
the path called ‘Percorso
della Madonna’, within little
time you’ll reach Bivio della
Forcella. The path goes on
following turning slightly to
the left. The landscape around
you is enchanting and the
(BG)
vegetation makes it typical
Mediterranean. During your
walk you’ll be able to admire
the chapel ‘Consacrata alla
Vergine’, the small church
of the alpins, ‘La Rocca de’
Zucchellis’ and at the end of
Vanentiniano’. Taking the road the route, the small church of
to an uphill part of Sarnico the saints Nazario and Rocco.
called Fosio, one comes to the
small church of the ‘Morti della
Peste’ (The fallen of the Pest)
with interesting frescos. Further,
close to the dam in the Oglio,
there is a water mill dated from
1600. Also worthwhile visiting
are the frescos of 1200 in the
small church of ‘San Nazario e
Rocco di Castione’. Close to the
www.prolocosarnico.it
Predore (BG)
Following the main road Sebina on the west side of the lake in
the direction of Lovere, we pass the nautical Yard of Riva, then a
few bars and restaurants positioned directly on the lakeside with
beaches for relaxing moments in the sun. Just before the historic
centre of Predore one encounters the Chiesetta romanica di S.
Giorgio (small roman church) from the twelfth Century. It has a
squat bell-tower at two levels and two bells and was reconstructed
in 1983.The uphill historic centre has small alleys and houses built
with ancient stones. Almost nothing is left of the medieval castle
and the fortress. The Parrochhiale (1909) (parish) in the centre is
a beautiful exhibition in itself, with an entrance portal surmounted
by a gable sustained by high-built columns. This altogether is in
perfect harmony with its position facing the lake. In the ancient
centre on the lakeside we find the Chiesa Arcipresbiteriale S.
Giovanni Battista built around the year 1,000. The lake-oriented
façade has meen remodelled several times: the roof made of
trusses has replaces the arched over one, which had collapsed.
The Santuario Madonna della Neve di S.Gregorio (sancturarium of
the holy Mary of the snow of S. Gregorius) of the 15th century is
to be reached after climbing 285 steps. Gable Façade with portal
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in Sarnico-stones. Inside with
one bay and a central cupola. The
historic centre had testimonies of
the Medieval era, like the ruins
of the surrounding wall and the
Casa Torre (the tower house)
of the eighteenth century in the
Via Carobbio, in the higher part
of the town. Directly on the lake
we see the Torre Dimezzata of
the XII Century that was part
of the fortification of Predore.
Because of a subsidence of the
underlying ground, half of the
tower collapsed. Predore has the
sun almost all day and is well
equipped for dining, drinking,
sunbathing and relaxing. For
“trekking” lovers, we advise the
walking route of the “Corno”,
that starts at Predore from
the ‘Via degli Ulivi’. It takes its
course through Mediterranean
vegetation
like
Oleanders,
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San Giovanni Battista
Rosemary and Cypresses. The
route has beautiful panoramic
views to the lake and to the
village of Predore. The first
part of the path passes through
private gardens to continue
through pine forests until it
reaches the rock wall that
climbers often use for their
practising. After the tunnel of
the road 469 in the direction
of Tavernola, one reaches the
road that leads to the ‘Pozzo
glaciale di Predore’ (The ice
well of Predore). Tourism
has grown thanks to hotel
“dell’Angelo” Possibility to rent
boats at Cristinelli’s nautical .
Tavernola (BG)
Enclosed by the hills, Tavernola enjoys a mild climate
all year long. From the historical center that overlooks
the tree lined walk to the lake and to the small port, a
slender tower stands out. It belonged to the defensive
walls of the medieval village. Today the tower has bells
and a clock. Tavernola is the ideal resort to spend a nice
evening tasting a good typical dish or a good pizza in the
historical center’s restaurants. The baroque parish church
dedicated to Santa Maria Maddalena was built on the ruins
of the castle. Inside you can find XVII century’s paintings.
In the vicinity of the cemetery the beautiful landscape is
dominated by the Chiesa di San Pietro. The slim bell-tower,
square in plan, has double orifices in stone of Sarnico on
all four sides. Then, in Cambianica, the small Roman
church Chiesetta romanica di San Michelone of the twelfth
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Century, completely built up by
regular stone blocks. On the
circular apse the orifices open.
Interesting are the frescoes
inside as well as those who
decorate the outside. Beuatiful
ancient villas that belong to
noble families: Villa Fenaroli
of the sixteenth century with
botanic parc, Villa Caprioli, Villa
Camilla Fenaroli, Villa Capuani,
Villa Poma, Villa Spina and Villa
Longari. In summer the bars,
pubs and restaurants open
there verandas for tourists,
assuring their guests a relaxing
dinner with the caressing of
the little lake-breeze. From the
port, there are daily connections
to
and
from
Montisola.
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Riva di Solto (BG)
A few kilometres after Tavernola in the direction of Lovere, we
reach Riva di Solto, an ancient medieval centre against the
lake. For it’s urban conformation Riva di Solto is one of the
most picturesque localities of the Sebino. Some Ruins, among
which those of the castle and of the tower of the 13th century,
square in plan, on the most northern side of the village, are
the traces of a defensive system in this housing settlement.
From the port there are daily a lot of connections to Montisola.
The camping just a few steps outside of Riva di Solto houses a
number of tourists every summer, partly because of a great pizzeria
on site and a clean beach where one can swim and sunbathe.
A few metres from the
Centro storico
camping is situated
the church Chiesa di
San Rocco from the
16th century. On the
façade a ridge roof
and a portal in stone of
Sarnico presents four
columns sustaining a
decorated architrave.
Inside, one bay only,
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some prestigious paintings. A few steps away from the square
tower you’ll find the church-square of the Chiesa San Nicola
Vescovo, today the parish of Riva di Solto, built in the 18th
century and widened later on. The façade enriched with baroque
decorations presents Ionic pilaster strips. The interior has three
bays with a marble altar. On the main street on the lake, one
finds two gentlemen’s houses: Palazzo Martinoni of the noble
family Martinoni and Palazzo Polini of the XVI th Century, an ex
monastery with a beautiful cloister with frescoes. In this ancient
house was incorporated part of the ancient defensive structure of
the village, in fact, very nearby stands the tower Torre Mozza of the
XIV Century with a square basis, which was part of the defensive
walls of Riva di Solto. The commune of Riva di Solto consists in
the two fractions of Zorzino e Gargarino. In Zorzino, a small centre
with a perfect panoramic position, from where to admire the lake
and its islands, with the former church of “San Bernardino da
Siena”, this Roman apse in stone belonged to a church of the
XIth century. The parish that it Lungolago
is today is dedicated to two saints
Santi Ippolito e Cassiano. Visitors can stay in the Hotel Miranda
with its beautiful and modern structure with swimming pool.
Gargarino is an ancient village in panoramic position on the
Sebino. The church Chiesa di San Cassiano, built in 1200 –
1600, has one bay only and conserves prestigious frescoes.
Castro (BG)
Orrido
From Riva di Solto one arrives at Castro in only a few minutes. The
road to drive to get there is full of curves, but shows enchanting
panoramas too. Small inlets alter the rocky coastlines that fall
sheer to the lake, creating for the visitor views of splendid colours.
Castro is the smallest medieval village of the lake surroundings. Its
historical centre, with its narrow alleys, is built around the ancient church
Parocchiale S. Giacomo. In the end of the 19th century there was a
demografic growth thanks to the development of industrial activities.
Parrocchiale
Grotta Bueno Fonteno
Lovere (BG)
Lovere is an elegant small town on the northern side of the lake.
A beautiful holiday town on the outlet of the ‘Valle Camonica’ and
‘Cavallina’. In Lovere it’s good to stroll on the lakeside, between
gardens and trees, looking at the other –Brescian- side of the lake
and the mountaintops of the ‘Adamello’. In the evening, when
the air is a little cooler, the numerous bars and pubs of ‘Piazza
XIII Martiri’ fill up with visitors looking for relaxation. The historic
centre, illuminated by little street-lamps, is the ideal spot for walks
and to discover ancient testimonies of a medieval fortified town:
the Torre degli Alghisi with its massive stone walls, the towers
Torre Soca and the Torricella surmounted by a cross, the tower
Torre Civica at ‘Piazza Vittorio Emanuele’ that is testimony of the
ancient castle built by the ‘Celeri’ family in the twelfth Century.
During the hottest hours of the day, one can find refreshment in
the swimming pools of the Lido that is situated e few hundreds
metres from the small tourist port. Along the lakeside one
notices elegant buildings, like the Palazzo Gregorini of 1500
with a portal and a small loggia on the second floor; Palazzo
Marinoni, Villa Milesi, Palazzo Tadini (today picture-gallery Tadini,
Pinacoteca Tadini
where hundreds art works are
exposed), the Palazzo Bazzini
of the 16th century in the vicinity
of the parish and presents a
beautiful entrance portal made
of stone of Sarnico, that is
let in the internal porch. The
U-plan makes that the building
is exposed towards the lake. It
is evident that Lovere once lived
a period of economic prosperity.
In the 15th Century, under the
domination of the ‘Serenissima
Repubblica di Venezia’, the
woollen ‘panno grezzo’, typical
clothing produced here, was
exported outside the Italian
borders, especially in the
German area. Donations of
wealthy inhabitants of lovere,
Santuario
made it possible to realise remarkable religious buildings.
La Parrocchiale Santa Maria in Valvendra of 1473, is a big
church of three bays. The central one is arched over by a vault
‘a carena’, the side bays have cross vaults. It has two entrances:
one upstream, preceded by a pronaos with a flight of steps,
the second one on the side, presents a beautiful portal with an
architrave of stone. Inside there are some important frescoes.
The church Chiesa di San Giorgio, built in the 13th Century, has
undergone rearrangements in the course of the centuries. The
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entrance portal, placed in 1887,
is surmounted by a low relief
that represents San Giorgio
killing the dragon. The inside in
Baroque stile presents a central
bay and two lateral ones that
were added in 1800. Above the
entrance you’ll see a painting
of 1657 that represents Moses
who makes water come out a
cliff. Il Santuario of 1400, next
to the institute of the Sisters
of charity, is to be found at the
top of an uphill street that starts
at ‘Piazza Garibaldi’. It is a
valuable building in Gothic stile
with a fine cuspidate bell-tower.
Inside there are a few very
precious frescoes. The chapel
Cappella di Santa Chiara of
19
1648 is part of the monastery
of the Clarisse. Well visible
from the lakeside of Lovere
is the bell-tower with cross
and the semicircular apse.
The inside is rectangular in
plan with altar in marble. The
Cappella di San Martino is
the most ancient church of
Lovere (12th Century). It rises
on the ruins of a small church
built in the IXth Century. The
Cappella dell’ Immacolata of
the nineteenth Century is built
in the courtyard of Palazzo
Tadini. Inside this neoclassic
structure you’ll find the tombs
of some nobles of the Tadini
family.
MONTISOLA
The pearl of Iseo lake, a
mountain in an island…call it as
you want but visit it and love it.
Who inevitably reaches Montisola
would like never leave it, you are
because magically and inexorably
seduced from the suburbs of the
fishermen that time has jealously
guarded preserving it from the
habits of frantic
near cities.
You are immediately attracted
by the desire to look around, to
penetrate in the alleys, to listen to
the water that cautiously swings
the “naet”- the ancient boats
of the fishermen. And speaking
becomes slow and the voice
becomes whispered as in a sacred
place. The coastal perimeter of
Località PORTO
ISOLA Di LORETO
the island is 11 kilometers long and counts 12 historical centers:
the main town Siviano, Carzano, Masse, Cure, Menzino, Novale,
Olzano, Peschiera Maraglio, Port of Siviano, Sensole, Senzano,
Sinchignano. In Montisola cars are not admitted, the only way to
visit the island is by bicycle or bybus.
Who is very fit can walk along the
coast road enjoying the silent nature
and the spectacular scenic views on
the west coast (towards Bergamo) and
on the east coast (towards Brescia).
In the highest point of the island - 600
meters high - in the place named Cure
there is the Ceriola’s Sanctuary; in this
point the panorama astonishes.
The island L’isola di Loreto is the
smallest island of the lake. Situated
on the north side of Montisola. It is of
private property. In 1400 a cloister was
built here for the Sisters of S.Chiara.
Today there is a castle in New Gothic
stile, a park and a small port. The
island L’Isola di San Paolo is situated
on the south side of Montisola. It is of
private property too. Once here lived
ISOLA DI SAN PAOLO
fishermen, monks and nobles.
The story tells that on this
island there was once a very
big convent, but in 1700 when
the island became of private
property the church as well as
the convent were razed to the
ground. In 1912 the island was
bough by the Basilio family who
built a big villa on it.
From Sulzano you reach by boat
Peschiera Maraglio, picturesque
suburb of fishermen with small
port where the “naets”- the
boats of fishermen - are moored.
This is the most frequented
place of the island, known for
the Museum of the net and the
naval dockyard. The little church
of St. Michael of the XVII sec.
should be visited
Travelling
Villa Ferrata
along the coast road, in 30
minutes you arrive in Carzano,
ancient suburb of fishermen
and manufacturers of nets.
The historical centre has well
preserved ancient houses. Every
5 years on September 14th, the
Saint Cross’ day is celebrated,
all the inhabitants decorate
their own home with paper
flowers handmade, the evening
so many small white lights make
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the landscape surreal. Nearby the
Baroque church devoted to St.
Joan Baptist, an equipped park
with a view over the Loreto’s
island can be reached; tourists
can enjoy themselves sunbathing
and plunging in the clear waters
of the lake. In Carzano is placed
the unique camping of the island,
where the well known Restaurant
Montisola is located, you can
appreciate local cooking, based
on lake fish. Carzano is reachable
by boat from Sale Marasino.
Continuing on the coast road you
approach Siviano, in this ancient
village placed at 250 meters
stands out the Martinengo tower
of the XIV Sec. The imposing
Parish devoted to Saints Faustino
and Giovita dominates the
surrounding
landscape.
Still
continuing you reach Sensole
where on the summit of a rocky
wall the mighty fortress of the
Martinengo was built in the XII
CARZANO
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sec., The fortress that served
to protect the Island, has
a cylindrical donjon to the
center. The road towards
Peschiera Maraglio is silent
and gives fabulous panoramic
views on the St. Paul’s island.
Nearby the departure point
there is a park with olive
trees where tourists stop for
the pic-nic.
In this magic island a good
extra-virgin olive oil D.o.p.
and a very good salami of
Montisola are produced,
according to the ancient
techniques. Another tradition
is the storage of the sardines
of lake: after having cleaned
and washed, they are salted
pickled for one day, then they
are hung on wood frameworks
to desiccate; some days after,
fish is washed and preserved
in oil.
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Brescia Coast
For whom is on holiday on the
brescian coast of the Lake Iseo we
advise a route through the natural
beauties of this place. Leaving from
the lower parts of the Sebino we
recommend you pay a visit to the
wine cellars of the Franciacorta.
The Franciacorta is a territory that
consists in 19 municipalities of the
province of brescia, well-known
worldwide for it’s wine production.
What’s more, it is the place of
very ancient castles where famous
people found shelter, like the Italian
Medieval poet Dante Alighieri. A very
important role for this territory has the
municipality of Ome for the thermal
baths “Le Terme di Franciacorta”,
founded in 1987. Just outside the
town called Provaglio d’Iseo we find
Franciacorta
Torbiere - Iseo
the natural reserve called
“Le torbiere”: a territory
full of water mirrors where
17 species of birds breed
in complete liberty. It is
a rather amall area; only
360 hectares. One side
reaches almost to the lake
and is called “Lametta”. In
Cislano we find the reserve
of the piramids of erosion.
Natural created parimids: a
natural phenomenon with
few examples similar in
the world. High columns
of earth sustain big masses
on their small tops. After
Pisogne, following the signs
for Darfo Boario lies the
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Spiaggia - Pilzone
Archeopark, a big museum in the open air, where it is possible
to relive our past through a visit to the rebuilt prehistoric towns
of the ancient Camunes and other people of the alps that lived
15.000 years ago. Very near to Darfo boario, you’ll find the
Lake Moro, a splendid angle of incontaminated nature, ideal for
strolls in meditation or for a refreshing bath in summertime. It
is a silent place and the nature is of such beauty that it makes
itself respected. Little would be enough to damage the delicacy
of the nature here. (palafitte), human images and simbols.
Paratico
(BS)
Is situated on the most southern spot on the lake Iseo. Tourism
is incentivated by four comfortable hotels. The historic centre is
extended on a hill and has been more valorised especially in the
last few years, with restaurations of the ancient habitations and the
parish dedicated to Santa Maria assunta, with the requalification of
the park “Ocenlandia” and the renewed urban look. Alongside the
lakesid boulevard you’ll find ice-cream bars and restaurants. In a
valley is situated the cimitery and the small church of San Pietro
belonging to it (of 1730). On another hill top of the village stand the
ruins of the castle Castello Lantieri of the XI Century, with chapel
dedicated to S. Borromeo. Worthwhile visiting is the “Complesso
Vanzago”, the former castle in property of the family Lantieri.
Destructed by the military forces of rescia in 1241 that became
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then a monastery. Attached
to the building that it is today,
stands a church with a simple
bell towe. Above the portal
out of Sarnico stone there are
some evident frescoes. From
the roundabout one follows the
signs for the direction to Iseo
and the surroundings change
radically: a broad green zone
towards the lake, very much
frequented by sun bathing
lovers, is well-equipped with
bars, pubs and a small tourist
port with boats that leave for
other villages on the lake on
a daily basis. The new Parco
delle Chiatte Park opened in
2010 near the shore in front
of Sarnico is the meeting place
for people who spend time on
Lake Iseo, also just for one day.
This beautiful lakeside park is
furnished with benches, ponds
with aquatic plants, flower beds,
areas for swimming and two
bars/restaurants with terraces
outside. There are concerts in the
evening and daytime markets.
The area is adorned with a great
water fountain placed directly on
the lake a few meters away from
the shore. A bit further, towards
the iron bridge (1889) that
connects Paratico with Sarnico,
you can find bars, restaurants,
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Torre Lantieri
clothing stores and a wake
board school. Not far away lies
the nineteenth-century train
station from which in Summer
the Blue Train parts. The historic
Ocelandia
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town Paratico is built on the
slopes of hills overlooking the
lake. On top of one of these
hills are the ruins of the Castle
Lantieri (XI-XV). On top of
another hill overlooking the
village is the Parish Church of
Santa Maria Assunta.
In the
Oselanda
town heart is the square tower
Lantieri XIV century. Today it is
a major attraction for tourists.
On the ground floor was in
fact placed the quadrisphere,
of which there are only three
Santa Maria Assunta
PArrocchiale
other examples in Italy: in a
darkened room are projected
and multiplied countless pictures
and videos through a system of
lights and mirrors. In the location
Le Chiatte
Tengattini in the Lungolago
far north,
is the
Shipyard Bertelli deposit with
boats and refuelling stations.
Not far away are the tourist
boat landings for connections
with other lake sites. Tourism
has encouraged hotel Olivi and
the Franciacorta Golf Hotel.
Paratico is part of the territory
known as Franciacorta. In the
wine cellar Bredasole is grown
and gathered excellent Pinot
Blanc and Chardonnay grapes
which produce a delicious
white wine with the certification
denominazione
controllata.
Clusane (BS)
Of the fractions of Iseo, Clusane is
the one with the most peculiarities:
the beauty of its historic centre,
the gastronomic traditions and the
promotion of the Tourist operators
of Clusane. From Paratico to Iseo
one passes a number of camping,
hotels and restaurants. Then the
church ‘Parocchiale’ dedicated
to ‘Cristo Re’ (The king Christ).
To reach the picturesque historic
nucleus of Clusane one takes one of
the two streets that led to the lake.
The lakeside is a wide square Alberta
dominated by Castello Carmagnola
(1429) of private property.
A few new elements in cement
have ruined the original structure.
Beautiful is the loggio with frescos
on the second floor with 14 arches.
On a small square in the historic
centre one finds the ancient
Parrocchiale dedicated to the
saints Gervasio e Protasio Martiri.
The XV century church presents a
facade ‘a capanna’ with a portal of
Stones from Sarnico. In the small
port are moored the ‘naet’, typical
fishermen’s boats that recall the
slim Venetian gondolas. In
the typical restaurants of
this enchanting area one can
taste goof lake fish, prepared
according to ancient recipes
like the ‘tinca al forno con
polenta’. We signal the most
important events of Clusane
that
welcome
numerous
tourists every year: 25 June is
the festival “Sagra delle aole”;
from 17 to 23 July the week
of the Tench from the oven,
“Settimana della Tinca al Forno”
Iseo
(BS)
After leaving Clusane we follow the signs for Iseo. After a while
on our right side we’ll see “Le Torbiere” (the peat-bogs), a nature
reserve where various species of birds have found their oasis
and natural habitat. On our left side the road that leads to “Lido
Belvedere”, the park “Sassabanek” and to the “Iseo Lago Hotel”.
After a big roundabout the sign leads us to Iseo, the village on
the lake with the most tourist accommodations and amusement
structures. The boulevard on the lake side is very popular and
alongside it, there are numerous bars, pubs and clubs for the
young people and pizzerias and restaurants. The part near the port
is busy throughout the day and many choose Iseo as departure
point to bring a visit to Montisola. The historical centre of Iseo is
enchanting for the elegant buildings and squares.
The main square is the one dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi,
represented by a fountain in the middle with a statue of this
Italian hero. Worthwhile are the religious buildings: La Pieve di
S.Andrea is the most visited of them. The imposing structure of
the XII century has a beautiful bell tower in Roman stile. On the
right of the entrance, the mausoleum of Giacomo Oldofredi. The
inside has three aisles, chapels on the sides and an altar in marble.
Several paintings of various eras. Very nearby the ex-church of
San Giovanni Battista with a two-order façade.
On Piazza Garibaldi stands the wonderful Chiesa di Santa Maria
del Mercato of the fourteenth
century. In the one-bay building,
the frescoes of the fifteenth and
sixteenth century are of great
beauty and have been recently
restored by Zanardi and Foresti.
On top of a height still within
the village, stands the church
Chiesa della Madonna della
Neve. Built because of the
devotion of the people in 1656.
From the church-square with
big plane trees one can admire
the baroque facade of the
church. Inside is one bay with
a tunnel vault. Beuatiful the
fresco of Mary with child and S.
Anthony of 1400. Worth a visit
is the castle Castello Oldofredi
of the thirteenth century,
which is now a library, is placed
somewhat above the habitation
and therefore dominating it.
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Pieve S. Andrea
You reach the entrance though
recently built steps. Thanks to
recent restorations the sharp
arch portal and traces of the
draw-bridge.
In the historic centre beautiful
ancient buildings appear with
interesting decorations: Palazzo
Rampinelli of the 17h century
with fresco’s on the facade
facing the piazza Garibaldi;
Palazzo Arsenale at piazza
Statuto; Palazzo Vantini on
the square ‘Piazza Garibaldi’,
imposing
construction
of
1800 with ground floor in
fake split-faced block wall.
Estate in 2013
Above other two flors with big
windows. Back on the Sebino
road in northern direction you’ll
reach Pilzone after few km,
which is a fraction of Iseo. Very
nice locality on the lake side
with various bars, restaurants,
hotels, among which the
historic Araba Fenice Hotel. The
parish dedicated to Santa Maria
Assunta of the fifteenth century
has a two-order facade with
statues. Very special about this
church is the bell-tower, on top
of which has been able to grow
a true fig plant.
33
Sulzano
After the locality of Pilzone y pass
a small beach where swimming is
permitted throughout almost the
whole summer season. Nearby, in
a picturesque gulf, is the nautical
association ‘Associazione Nautica
Sebina’ to be found. Sailing
lovers can find in sulzano all the
necessary to practise this sport the
best way possible. After almost 1
km we reach the centre of Sulzano.
This picturesque village on the lake
side, where the water touches the
ancient houses, is charachterised
by hidden alleys and typical
landing stages for fishermen’s
boats. It is here that we find the
church church of Visitazione in
Baroque style, with portal of 1700,
one bay and dome vaulted. From
the small port of Sulzano boats
(BS)
go to Montisola countless
times. Along the main road
rises the parish Parrocchiale
of 1700 dedicated to San
Giorgio. The facade has two
orders; in the one above
Cascate Petoi
there are two niches with statues of
San Giorgio and San Giuseppe. Inside
one bay and four altars on the sides.
More uphill, in panoramic position.
Near the Petoi cascade with a height
of 15 metres, stands the church of the
sixteenth Century church of S. Fermo
and S. Rustico. It has a gable facade
with a rose-window; inside one bay
with a roof of trusses. To be reached
by foot or by car following the Nistino
road, at qa height of approx. 1,000
metres rises the church of the 15th
century Church of
Santa Maria del
Giogo which has
countless frescoes
of 1400 and 1500.
Definitely very nice
is the lake view.
Sale Marasino (BS)
Sale Marasino is one of the
most beautiful places of the
Iseo lake and a true summer
holiday centre. Lying on a green
amphitheatre, full of grasslands
and gardens that
softly
glide into the lake, providing
enchanting panoramic views.
There are numerous walking
routes that reach rather big
heights from where one can
admire the view of Montisola.
The lakeside full of trees is and
ideal spot for pleasant walks
passing interesting ancient
buildings among which the
nice parish Parrocchiale di San
Zenone Vescovo on the main
road, Near the departure of
the boats. This church of the
17th Century has stairs at its
Parrocchiale San Zenone
Estate in 2013
front side, facing the lake, with a
balustrade in marble. Inside is well
illuminated through the windows
of the round cupola on top of the
central bay.. On the sides of the
altar in marble there are statues
of San Zenone and San Giacomo.
The church of San Pietro dei
disciplini (Sixteenth Century) is
to be found along the main road
few metres from the lake side;
the facade has one order with
the portal with an architrave;
Inside interesting frescoes of the
early 15th Century. In the historic
centre of Sale Marasino stands
the 14th Century church of San
Antonio Abate with one bay only
and frescoes of remarkable artistic
value ; the bell tower is built
with arches around the bell and
a roof with tiles. In Gandizzano
you find the church of Santa
Maria della Neve of the Sixteenth
Century, the bell tower has three
bells. Inside there is one bay
with tunnel vault. In the locality
of Conche stands the church of
San Giovanni Battista of the 18th
Century and this church has a
prolonged apses. Then there is the
church of San Giacomo Apostolo
in Maspiano with a gable façade
and a fine portal in `botticino’. It
has one bay only. This remarkable
restored building rises on the
37
Villa Mazzucchelli
ruins of the medieval church.
This centre has surely known
a period of remarkable
economic flourishing, looking
at the villas and ancient
buildings, for instance: The
Villa Mazzucchelli of 1500
with two fine portals; Villa
Martinengo of 15oo, with
access from the Sebina
Road; the entrance portal
Chisa di San
has
a Antonio
big coat-of-arms.
Palazzo dell’antico albergo
Corona of the sixteenth
Century has a fine crossvaulted porch sustained by
columns in Stone of Sarnico
Marone
(BS)
From Sale Marasino to Marone the road leads us along many villa’s
of great beauty all built near the lake, in a way that it seems they
are just rising up out of the water. The free view on the islands and
the ancient hills alows the visitor to enjoy romantic and picturesque
panoramas. Right on the lake-side lies the biggest camping site of
Marone: the camping Riva san Pietro where the tourist can enjoy
splendid sceneries of Montisola and the absolute quietness of this
very well-equipped camping. Few chilometers ahead we find the
historic centre of Marone with the romantic boulevard on the lake
side for romantic strolls, and the kathedral called San Martino
Vescovo. We advise paying a visit to the Eremo di San Pietro of
the XIV Century, in Pregasso. This small holy building is built on
the panoramic rock over the lake, to be reached thanks to a steep
stairway out of stones and part of the Via Crucis. The religious
building has a gable facade and a pronaos with columns of Sarnico
stone. On the road to Zone, a few chilometres from the Pyramids
of earth, taking the small street on the right that leads to a green
valley where you’ll find the Santuario della Madonna della Rota
of the XIII Century. Vello, situated on the lake side, is a very fine
and picturesque part of Marone, for walking and cycling lovers.
Recently, in fact, the ancient road, the “Antica strada litoreana”
has become in reuse. This road is very appropriate for nice strolls
on the lake side because it follows the coastline exactly, that
changes from sheer beaches to rocky walls that vertically rise
up from the lake., in fact the road is prohibited for cars. Vello that
is sunny almost all day is formed by a group of houses, a small
port and the parish called Parrocchiale S. Eufemia of 1804
with a baroque facade. Of the XV Century is the small church
of the cimitery with admirable frescoes on the gable facade. The
municipality of Marone is part of the “Associazione Nazionale
Città dell’Olio” (National Association Oil City).
Lungola
Pisogne (BS)
It’s a very vast city on the coast on the Brescian side of the lake.
It includes the parts: Fraine, Grinaghe, Siniga, Sonvigo, Pontasio.
Pisogne is a picturesque resort, situated northwards, close to the
access to the Valley called Val Trobiolo. Boats from its tourist port
can reach the other localities on the lake. Pisogne has various
artisan and industrial activities. For centuries the prosperity of
Pisogne was linked to it’s being a sort of commercial emporium
in the Valle Camonica.The name of this village may have Roman
origins and perhaps derives from the noble family the Pisogni.
Some ancient and elegant buildings, such as the “Villa dei Conti
Damioli” of the XVIII century, and the “Palazzo Fanzago”, look
onto the market square, which also houses bars and ice-cream
parlours, very attractive to tourists. The centre of the town, slightly
higher than the height of the water of Lake Iseo, is full of alleys
and porticoes with elegant, different kind of, shops. On the market
square there one can also find the “Torre del Vescovo”, 32 metres
high. The legend says that in 1518 eight women were locked up in
this tower after being accused of sorcery, and then were burned
alive on the square. From the port there are connections to
Estate in 2013
Pieve
41
Santa Maria della neve
ago
Montisola and other localities
on the lake. Visible from the
Market Square is the parish
di Santa Maria Assunta of the
XVIII century, with only one
bay and a splendid pipe organ
from 1855. There is a beautiful
fresco on the dome that
represents the assumption of
the Mother Mary.
In the street ‘Contrada della
Longa’, one finds the church
Chiesa di Santa Maria della
Neve, from the second half
of the XV century. It has the
typical architecture of 1500.
Porto e Piazza del Mercato
The beautiful cross vaults in the
aisle show gothic, Roman as well
as Renaissance elements. From
an architectural point of view the
church Chiesa di Santa Maria in
Silvis, also from the XV century,
is similar to ‘Santa Maria della
Neve’, especially the portal. This
church is situated in a quarter a
little outside of the centre. It has
only one bay only, rectangular in
plan, a gable roof sustained by
trusses. The Palazzo Fanzago,
built in the historic centre
between the square ‘Piazza San
Costanzo’ and ‘via San Marco’ for
an ancient family originally from
Clusone, is from 1700. On the
façade there are some medallions
that represent the characters
of the book I Promessi Sposi of
Manzoni, an important writer in
the history of Italian literature.
Zone (BS)
An area where lake and land
come together to create an
environment of incomparable
beauty. A natural heritage of
great diversity made up of
footpaths, mule tracks, woods
and breathtaking views, which
attracts visitors from around
the world. Situated on a plateau
of 683 meters high, Zone is
dominated by the massive
Monte Guglielmo. It’s quiet and
cool in summer due to the hills
and the surrounding woods
that create a pleasant climate
even during the hottest months.
Parco
Riserva delle Piramidi di terra
This climate has made of Zone
one of the most important and
popular areas of the lake. It
can be reached from Marone
along a winding road uphill
until the new road to Brescia.
Proceeding for a few kilometers
you will reach Cislano, known
for its spectacular reserve of
the earth pyramids (piramidi di
terra) and the Church of San
Giorgio. A large carpark permits
the parking of buses and cars.
Nearby is a trail through the
vegetation that leads to the picnic
spaces with benches to admire the
natural spectacle of the Pyramids
of Zone. They are huge, craggy
boulders that support big masses
that act as protective caps to the
ground below. The phenomenon
is due to erosion of the moraine
ground by the mechanical action
of rain water. The life of the
pyramids is linked to the protective
cap. The nearby Church of San
Giorgio, built in the. XVth century,
has interesting frescoes on the
walls inside and out. On the left
side where it catches the eye is
a beautiful fresco depicting Saint
George fighting the dragon. Along
the road to Zone we find the
Sanctuary, dedicated to the Saints
Chiesetta SAnti Ippolito e Cassiano
Chiesetta San Giorgio
44
Estate in 2013
Ippolito and Cassiano of the fifteenth century. This small church is
located on top of a paved ramp where there are four chapels. The
tour continues to the center of Zone, consisting of narrow streets
and houses ofrom the seventeenth century. The parish church of
the seventeenth century, built on Piazza Giuseppe Almici Bishop
is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. The church has one ship and
the altar made of polychrome marble of fine workmanship. Nearby,
along the same square there is a church of the eighteenth century,
dedicated to the Blessed Virgin of Lourdes. The octagonal building
was part of the eighteenth-century cemetery.
This small mountain town attracts tourists who love hiking. From
Zone in fact you can follow paths of varying difficulty and reach
places of pristine nature with a 360 degree view of Lake Iseo.
Among the most interesting trails is the one that leads to Monte
Guglielmo, with signpost number 227 and 227A. The path that
passes through the forest of gnomesto wind along the valley Val
Vandűl. in about 2 hrs and 30 minutes to Monte Guglielmo. Another
attraction are the Parco degli Gnomi, it is a path where some trunks
of trees were cut and transformed into fantastic characters that act
as sentinels of the forest. Along the path, you will discover shapes
of gnomes, fantasy animals and even Pinocchio. The sculptures
are the work of a local artist Luigi Zatti, also known as “Il rosso”.
Chiesetta Beata Vergine di Lourdes
Estate in 2013
45
The pyramids of earth, created by erosion, are the result of
a rare natural phenomenon of which there are not many in
the world. The valley of the pyramids is to be reached, from
Marone, through an uphill road with many curves. After the
church San Giorgio in Clislano, one has to follow a path of
approx. 1 chilometre, that finishes on two small squares
with benches excellent for a short break and a chance to
admire the incomparable scenery of the pyramids of earth,
the “Piramidi di Terra”.
PIRAMIDI DI EROSIONE O DI TERRA
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Estate in 2013
La Franciacorta
The Franciacorta is the hilly territory situated in Lombard,
consisting in 19 communities of the Brescian province.
Surrounded on the east side by rocky hills of Moraine, on
the west side by the river Oglio and on the north side by
the lake Iseo, this area is very rich of minerals that are
the fundamental basis of the high quality agriculture here.
Together with the particular particle size structure and
the favourable climate they create a perfect condition for
cultivating vineyards. The wine produced on these hills has
always been of fame from ancient times on. This is confirmed
by citing classic latins Plinio il Vecchio, Columella, Virgilio,
the treaties of the XVI century of Andrea Bacci and Agostino
Gallo. Although it can be proud of a long history, the new
type of wine cultivating in the Franciacorta starts only in the
beginning of the sixties. On the territory various agricultural
firms had been working since a long time producing good
wines and commercialising them only on the local market.
One of the reasons for the big success of the Franciacorta
`formula’ is paradoxically, that
it has no ancient tradition
where it is obliged to report to.
This has made it possible to
reach the best results without
having to worry about historic
conditions of a tradition, which
would only have delayed
the growing process of this
product. The choice of the DOC
(Di Origine Controllata) for the
Franciacorta shows even more
the importance of having always
as only reference and priority
the name of its geographic
origin. The rules by which the
Franciacorta produces its wine
are public, official and obey
the national laws and those of
the European Community. This
way the consumer is protected
and can be guaranteed a good
product. The passport of the
Franciacorta is its territory
with all its natural aspects,
as is obliged according to
the norms of recognition of
the Italian DOC products.