Discover Calcinato: History on the Chiese

The Chiese River runs alongside Calcinato, which also lies on the outer edge of Lake Garda’s moraine amphitheatre. Travellers who want to consider history and architecture when choosing a destination will find traces of several eras in Calcinato. Roman finds, medieval churches and later works of art shed light on different chapters in the town’s history.

Roman Finds and Historic Buildings

Relics from Roman times found in Calcinato include an inscription to Apollo, a tomb with grave goods and a hoard of imperial-era coins. The finds differ considerably: they range from an inscription to a burial find and coins. Together, they provide several tangible points of connection to the town’s Roman past.

The Torre Civica is a medieval town tower with remains of the castle. A plaque on it commemorates 83 people who fell in the First World War. The tower and plaque represent different historical references: the town’s medieval history on the one hand, and remembrance of the fallen on the other. The plaque gives the number as 83.

Churches and Art in Calcinato

The parish church of San Vincenzo di Calcinato stands in a panoramic position at the top of a hill. Within the town’s former fortified enclosure, the church occupied the northern area. This historical context lends added significance to its location. Inside the church is a depiction of the Resurrection by Paolo Farinati, created in 1583.

In Calcinatello, too, art history is linked to a specific building: the Church of the Nativity of Mary contains a 16th-century fresco depicting John the Baptist. In Costiolo, the Chiesetta di San Francesco was built by Francesco Bonacini towards the end of the 16th century. Its main altar has a decorated wooden antependium from the 16th century—the ornamental covering on the front of the altar.

In the hamlet of Garletti, the Chiesetta di Santo Stefano was established in the Middle Ages as a diaconia of the Pieve di Pontenove di Bedizzole. Another place of art is the Don Bertini Auditorium: its interior contains frescoes dating from the mid-16th to the 19th century. The buildings and works of art can thus be attributed to different periods, and the town’s history is not limited to a single era.

The Ponte Settecentesco spans the Chiese with three arches and connects the municipality of Calcinato with its hamlet of Calcinatello. It is therefore both a distinctive structure over the river and a local link between the two places.

On Foot, by Bike and with the Family

Calcinato’s municipal cycle and walking paths connect with routes in neighbouring municipalities. Routes may change following subsequent construction work. If you are planning a route, check the current path before setting out.

Parco Più offers families and children a wide range of play equipment, including swings and slides, as well as picnic tables. The park has facilities that allow wheelchair access. As the amenities may change over time, it is advisable to check the current situation before visiting.

Discover more destinations: San Felice Del Benaco, Castegnato, Sirmione, Borgosatollo, Vobarno, Cecina, Soiano Del Lago, Collio.

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