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 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 d’Iseo. Fish specialties include also the golden perch fillets, as well the grilled whitefish and other delicacies. All accompanied by the noble wine . 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 , on the lakeside , then risk the arduous climb that leads to . 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. Estate in 2013 4 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 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 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 . The Lake Endine is to be found in one of the most beautiful valleys of the valleys of the : the Val Cavallina. The villages around the lake are: Monasterolo, Endine , , San Felice and . At Monasterolo there is a fine castle from the Middel Ages with a beautiful garden.

SARNICO

Sarnico is the locality situated medieval testimonies: the most to the south of the Sebino; pinacoteca Gianni Bellini. there where the lake turns into Situated within the palace the river . It is here where Gervasoni which once was a the coasts of Bergamo and that convent; the medieval tower of Brescia come together at in ‘Via Buelli’, the former a distance of only 80 metres. municipality of Sarnico, a A highly tourist area with building with arcades in beautiful and typical buildings ‘vicolo Tours’. Inside many facing the ‘piazza’s’ at the lake. decorations and paintings On these squares you’ll find among which the valuable restaurants, various cafe’s and painting that represents bars. Sitting outside the visitor ‘San Martino e l’imperatore 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 tourist port, from eparture www.prolocosarnico.it 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 (BG) you is enchanting and the 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 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 Estate in 2013 9 in Sarnico-stones. Inside with San Giovanni Battista 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 Rosemary and Cypresses. The walking route of the “Corno”, route has beautiful panoramic that starts at Predore from views to the lake and to the the ‘Via degli Ulivi’. It takes its village of Predore. The first course through Mediterranean part of the path passes through vegetation like Oleanders, 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 Estate in 2013 11

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. 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, Estate in 2013 13 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 Lungolagois 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 Lovere (BG) 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. clothing produced here, was In the 15th Century, under the exported outside the Italian domination of the ‘Serenissima borders, especially in the Repubblica di Venezia’, the German area. Donations of woollen ‘panno grezzo’, typical 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 Estate in 2013 19 entrance portal, placed in 1887, 1648 is part of the monastery is surmounted by a low relief of the Clarisse. Well visible that represents San Giorgio from the lakeside of Lovere killing the dragon. The inside in is the bell-tower with cross Baroque stile presents a central and the semicircular apse. bay and two lateral ones that The inside is rectangular in were added in 1800. Above the plan with altar in marble. The entrance you’ll see a painting Cappella di San Martino is of 1657 that represents Moses the most ancient church of who makes water come out a Lovere (12th Century). It rises cliff. Il Santuario of 1400, next on the ruins of a small church to the institute of the Sisters built in the IXth Century. The of charity, is to be found at the Cappella dell’ Immacolata of top of an uphill street that starts the nineteenth Century is built at ‘Piazza Garibaldi’. It is a in the courtyard of Palazzo valuable building in Gothic stile Tadini. Inside this neoclassic with a fine cuspidate bell-tower. structure you’ll find the tombs Inside there are a few very of some nobles of the Tadini precious frescoes. The chapel family. Cappella di Santa Chiara of MONTISOLA

The pearl of Iseo lake, a Località PORTO 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 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 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 Villa Ferrata 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. along the coast road, in 30 From you reach by boat minutes you arrive in Carzano, Peschiera Maraglio, picturesque ancient suburb of fishermen suburb of fishermen with small and manufacturers of nets. port where the “naets”- the The historical centre has well boats of fishermen - are moored. preserved ancient houses. Every This is the most frequented 5 years on September 14th, the place of the island, known for Saint Cross’ day is celebrated, the Museum of the net and the all the inhabitants decorate naval dockyard. The little church their own home with paper of St. Michael of the XVII sec. flowers handmade, the evening should be visited Travelling so many small white lights make Estate in 2013 23 the landscape surreal. Nearby the sec., The fortress that served Baroque church devoted to St. to protect the Island, has Joan Baptist, an equipped park a cylindrical donjon to the with a view over the Loreto’s center. The road towards island can be reached; tourists Peschiera Maraglio is silent can enjoy themselves sunbathing and gives fabulous panoramic and plunging in the clear waters views on the St. Paul’s island. of the lake. In Carzano is placed Nearby the departure point the unique camping of the island, there is a park with olive where the well known Restaurant trees where tourists stop for Montisola is located, you can the pic-nic. appreciate local cooking, based In this magic island a good on lake fish. Carzano is reachable extra-virgin olive oil D.o.p. by boat from . and a very good salami of Continuing on the coast road you Montisola are produced, approach Siviano, in this ancient according to the ancient village placed at 250 meters techniques. Another tradition stands out the tower is the storage of the sardines of the XIV Sec. The imposing of lake: after having cleaned Parish devoted to Saints Faustino and washed, they are salted and Giovita dominates the pickled for one day, then they surrounding landscape. Still are hung on wood frameworks continuing you reach Sensole to desiccate; some days after, where on the summit of a rocky fish is washed and preserved wall the mighty fortress of the in oil. Martinengo was built in the XII

CARZANO Estate in 2013 24 Brescia Coast Torbiere - Iseo

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 , 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 the natural reserve called important role for this territory has the “Le torbiere”: a territory municipality of Ome for the thermal full of water mirrors where baths “Le Terme di Franciacorta”, 17 species of birds breed founded in 1987. Just outside the in complete liberty. It is town called Provaglio d’Iseo we find 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 , following the signs Franciacorta for Darfo Boario lies the Estate in 2013 25

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. (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 Estate in 2013 27 then a monastery. Attached Torre Lantieri 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 clothing stores and a wake of Sarnico is the meeting place board school. Not far away lies for people who spend time on the nineteenth-century train Lake Iseo, also just for one day. station from which in Summer This beautiful lakeside park is the Blue Train parts. The historic 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, Ocelandia Estate in 2013 28 town Paratico is built on the other examples in : in a slopes of hills overlooking the darkened room are projected lake. On top of one of these and multiplied countless pictures hills are the ruins of the Castle and videos through a system of Lantieri (XI-XV). On top of lights and mirrors. In the location another hill overlooking the Tengattini in the Lungolagofar north, Le Chiatte is the village is the Parish Church of Shipyard Bertelli deposit with Santa Maria Assunta. In the Oselanda boats and refuelling stations. town heart is the square tower Not far away are the tourist Lantieri XIV century. Today it is boat landings for connections a major attraction for tourists. with other lake sites. Tourism On the ground floor was in has encouraged hotel Olivi and fact placed the quadrisphere, the Franciacorta Golf Hotel. of which there are only three 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. Santa Maria Assunta

PArrocchiale Clusane (BS)

Of the fractions of Iseo, Clusane is slim Venetian gondolas. In the one with the most peculiarities: the typical restaurants of the beauty of its historic centre, this enchanting area one can the gastronomic traditions and the taste goof lake fish, prepared promotion of the Tourist operators according to ancient recipes of Clusane. From Paratico to Iseo like the ‘tinca al forno con one passes a number of camping, polenta’. We signal the most hotels and restaurants. Then the important events of Clusane church ‘Parocchiale’ dedicated that welcome numerous to ‘Cristo Re’ (The king Christ). tourists every year: 25 June is To reach the picturesque historic the festival “Sagra delle aole”; nucleus of Clusane one takes one of from 17 to 23 July the week the two streets that led to the lake. of the Tench from the oven, The lakeside is a wide square Alberta “Settimana della Tinca al Forno” 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 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. Estate in 2013 32

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 33

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. Sulzano (BS)

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 go to Montisola countless boats. It is here that we find the times. Along the main road church church of Visitazione in rises the parish Parrocchiale Baroque style, with portal of 1700, of 1700 dedicated to San one bay and dome vaulted. From Giorgio. The facade has two the small port of Sulzano boats 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 Parrocchiale San Zenone 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 Estate in 2013 37 front side, facing the lake, with a balustrade in marble. Inside is well Villa Mazzucchelli 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; ruins of the medieval church. the facade has one order with This centre has surely known the portal with an architrave; a period of remarkable Inside interesting frescoes of the economic flourishing, looking early 15th Century. In the historic at the villas and ancient centre of Sale Marasino stands buildings, for instance: The the 14th Century church of San Villa Mazzucchelli of 1500 Antonio Abate with one bay only with two fine portals; Villa and frescoes of remarkable artistic Martinengo of 15oo, with value ; the bell tower is built access from the Sebina with arches around the bell and Road; the entrance portal a roof with tiles. In Gandizzano hasChisa di San a Antonio big coat-of-arms. you find the church of Santa Palazzo dell’antico albergo Maria della Neve of the Sixteenth Corona of the sixteenth Century, the bell tower has three Century has a fine cross- bells. Inside there is one bay vaulted porch sustained by with tunnel vault. In the locality columns in Stone of Sarnico 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 `’. It has one bay only. This remarkable restored building rises on the (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). Lungolago

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 41

Pieve Santa Maria della neve

Lungolago

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 The beautiful cross vaults in the bay and a splendid pipe organ aisle show gothic, Roman as well from 1855. There is a beautiful as Renaissance elements. From fresco on the dome that an architectural point of view the represents the assumption of church Chiesa di Santa Maria in the Mother Mary. Silvis, also from the XV century, In the street ‘Contrada della is similar to ‘Santa Maria della Longa’, one finds the church Neve’, especially the portal. This Chiesa di Santa Maria della church is situated in a quarter a Neve, from the second half little outside of the centre. It has of the XV century. It has the only one bay only, rectangular in typical architecture of 1500. plan, a gable roof sustained by trusses. The Palazzo Fanzago, Porto e Piazza del Mercato built in the historic centre between the square ‘Piazza San Costanzo’ and ‘via San Marco’ for an ancient family originally from , 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 Riserva delle Piramidi di terra dominated by the massive Monte Guglielmo. It’s quiet and This climate has made of Zone cool in summer due to the hills one of the most important and and the surrounding woods popular areas of the lake. It that create a pleasant climate can be reached from Marone even during the hottest months. 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 Parco 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 Chiesetta SAnti Ippolito e Cassiano pyramids is linked to the protective cap. The nearby Church of San Chiesetta San Giorgio 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 Estate in 2013 44

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 Estate in 2013 46

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 with all its natural aspects, it has no ancient tradition as is obliged according to where it is obliged to report to. the norms of recognition of This has made it possible to the Italian DOC products. 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