Lazise, Medieval commune in Province of Verona, Italy
Lazise is a medieval commune in the Province of Verona on the eastern shore of Lake Garda. The town stretches along the waterfront with stone walls enclosing narrow streets that lead to a central harbor area.
In 983, Emperor Otto I granted Lazise the right to fortify itself and establish trading rights, making it the first documented free commune in Italy. This early autonomy shaped the town's development as an important trading center on the lake.
The Scaliger Castle from the 14th century shapes the town with its three original gates and drawbridges that still dominate the center today. This fortress shows how important the place was as a fortified trading post on the lake.
The commune includes two additional villages, Cola and Pacengo, connected by public transportation. Various accommodation options near the lake make the area easy to reach for visitors.
Residents maintain the tradition of Cuccagna del Cadenon, where participants attempt to climb a pole extending over the waters of the lake. This festival shows an old folk custom that remains alive today.
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