THE HISTORY OF DESENZANO
A Journey Through History Between Roman Times and Venetian Culture
From its prehistoric roots to its blossoming as a cultural and tourist centre, discover the characters and transformations that have shaped the “pearl of Lake Garda”
Desenzano del Garda, located on the southern shore of Lake Garda, boasts a rich and varied history that spans millennia, from the first prehistoric traces to the present day.
Prehistoric Origins
The first evidence of human settlements in the area dates back to the Bronze Age. The hamlet of Polada gave its name to a prehistoric culture characterized by square-mouthed terracotta vases, dating back to the early Bronze Age. An exceptional repertoire is the wooden plough from 2000 BC, the oldest discovered so far, found in the Lavagnone area and preserved in the "Giovanni Rambotti" Civic Archaeological Museum
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Roman Period
During the Roman era, Desenzano, known as "Decentianum", became an important agricultural and commercial center. The presence of a Roman villa from the 4th century AD, with splendid floor mosaics, testifies to the importance of the city in this period. The remains of the villa can be visited today and represent one of the main archaeological attractions of the area.
Middle Ages
With the fall of the Roman Empire, Desenzano went through a period of instability. In the Middle Ages, it was contested between Brescia and Verona, undergoing various dominations. The medieval castle, built perhaps around the year 1000 and rebuilt in the 14th-15th centuries, served as a refuge for the population during enemy raids.
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Venetian Dominion
In the 15th century, Desenzano came under the rule of the Republic of Venice. During this period, the city became a thriving fishing port with extensive privileges granted in 1458 and an important agricultural market. The construction of the Old Port and public buildings dates back to this period, contributing to the economic and architectural development of the city.
Napoleonic and Austrian Era
With the arrival of Napoleon's troops in 1797, Desenzano became part of the Cisalpine Republic. After the fall of Napoleon, the city came under Austrian control, becoming part of the Lombard-Venetian Kingdom. During this period, Desenzano maintained its importance as a commercial and agricultural center.
Unification of Italy and the 20th Century
After the unification of Italy in 1861, Desenzano experienced a period of economic and demographic development. The arrival of the railway facilitated connections with the main cities of northern Italy, promoting tourism. In the 20th century, the city established itself as one of the main tourist destinations on Lake Garda, thanks to its mild climate, natural beauty and historical heritage.
Famous People
Desenzano del Garda is the birthplace of another important personality:
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Saint Angela Merici (1474-1540) : founder of the Company of Saint Ursula, dedicated to the education of young women.
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Angelo Anelli (1761-1820) : librettist and poet, known for having written the libretto of "L'Italiana in Algeri" by Gioachino Rossini
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Ferdinando Bertoni (1725-1813) : composer and organist, he was the first organist of the Basilica of San Marco in Venice
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Mr. Rain (Mattia Balardi, 1991) : contemporary rapper and singer-songwriter, known for successful songs in the Italian music scene
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The history of Desenzano del Garda is a mix of cultures and dominations that have left an indelible mark on its artistic and cultural heritage, making it a fascinating destination for those who wish to immerse themselves in the past and Italian traditions.
SOME PHOTOS AND HISTORICAL POSTCARDS OF DESENZANO
