Monte Isola, Lake island in Province of Brescia, Italy
Monte Isola is a lake island in Lake Iseo that rises about 600 meters and spans roughly 4.5 square kilometers, making it the largest of its kind in Italy and Central Europe. Eleven villages dot the shoreline and slopes, connected by narrow roads and walking paths that follow the natural contours of the land.
The island first appears in written records around 905 AD under the name Insulae curtis. The Oldofredi family built fortifications here in the 11th century, marking a shift toward defending and controlling the strategic position in the lake.
The eleven villages scattered across the island maintain fishing practices and wooden boat craftsmanship that connect residents to the lake in a way that shapes daily life. This heritage remains visible in how people work and what they make with their hands.
Regular ferry services connect the island to the mainland towns of Sulzano and Sale Marasino, with only bicycles and mopeds allowed for transportation on the island. Plan to walk a good deal since most villages and hillside paths require going on foot.
The Sanctuary of Madonna della Ceriola crowns the island's highest point, built atop the remains of an ancient pagan site. This location offers sweeping views across the entire lake and surrounding landscape in all directions.
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