Castellaro Lagusello, an ancient castle on a heart-shaped lake

Castellaro Lagusello owes its name to the small heart-shaped lake it overlooks and to its medieval origins as a simple fortified settlement.

The area was already inhabited during the Bronze Age, with stilt-house settlements, and in Roman times there are traces of dwellings. First mentioned in 1145, the fortified village developed between the 11th and 12th centuries. It passed to the Visconti and then to the Gonzaga, until it came under the Venetian Republic in 1441. In 1637 the Serenissima sold it to the Arrighi counts, who transformed the fortress into a medieval court with peasant residences and a noble curtis.

What to see in the village of Castellaro Lagusello

Castellaro Lagusello welcomes visitors with bucolic atmospheres and its charming heart-shaped lake, framed by the morainic amphitheater of Lake Garda. The village preserves its medieval Guelph walls, cobblestone paving, and ancient houses such as the one opposite Villa Arrighi-Tacoli, unchanged since the 13th century. The entrance is from the north side through a gate with a square tower known as the Clock Tower. Among the highlights are the Baroque church of San Nicola, with a 15th-century wooden Madonna, and the small terminal square with Villa Arrighi, which incorporates a medieval fortress and the little church of San Giuseppe (1737) with 17th-century paintings.

From the village, a short staircase leads to the shore, where wooden boats create a picturesque atmosphere. From the south, the view embraces walls, towers, the lake, and lush nature. Not to be missed are a visit to the medieval castle and the church of San Biagio.

Events in Castellaro Lagusello

Castellaro Lagusello and Monzambano offer a rich calendar of events combining nature, culture, and tradition. In April the stars are I Fiori di Castellaro (The Flowers of Castellaro), while in May the Treasure Hunt takes place. June brings the Astronomy Festival and the Romantic Night.

Summer features the Sagra del Polastrel in July and Vino in Castello, followed by the Sagra di San Bartolomeo in August. September celebrates the Grape Festival with Historical Reenactment and Un Paese Family Friendly.

October brings Orange Like Honey and the Walk Among the Olive Trees. Finally, December lights up the atmosphere with A Christmas of Two Castles.

Activities around Castellaro Lagusello

The entire village of Castellaro Lagusello, together with its lake, is part of the Mincio Natural Park, and therefore the Lombardy Region is responsible for local environmental protection. The morainic hills are very popular among cyclists for their ups and downs: along the banks of the Mincio River runs a cycle path that crosses the green countryside surrounding Monzambano.

The area is also ideal for activities such as horseback riding, cycle tourism, and walks along dedicated trails.

And did you already know this village? All that’s left is to discover it with your own eyes!