Known by all as "the pearl of the islands and peninsulas" thanks to Catullus, Sirmione is renowned for the well-known healing properties of its thermal water. Located on the southern shore of Lake Garda, on a long, thin peninsula that divides the gulfs of Desenzano and Peschiera, Sirmione enjoys wide fame thanks to writers such as Catullo, Stendhal, Lawrence and Goethe who celebrated its artistic and environmental beauties. Remembered as "Mansio" (set of public buildings subjected to a decurion), after the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Sirmione became part of the Lombard kingdom and, during the 12th century, had its own administration dependent on Verona. During the Scaligera lordship, in the sec. XIII, was surrounded by walls and equipped with the imposing fortress, to then pass to Venice in the century. XV. In addition to hosting a spa of international standing, it offers a rich historical and artistic heritage, which includes the remains of an ancient Roman villa of the early imperial age, otherwise known as the Grotte di Catullo, the Rocca Scaligera and the church of S. Pietro in Mavino, dating back to the eighth century. about. The historic center is characterized by narrow alleys with stone walls, capable of giving visitors romantic and evocative glimpses. Today Sirmione is one of the most important tourist resorts on Lake Garda: it offers sports and recreational facilities equipped for practicing water sports (windsurfing, sailing, etc.) and international standard hotel facilities able to satisfy the requests of even the most demanding customers. To visit: Scaliger Castle – Roman Villa “Grotte di Catullo” – Church of S. Pietro in Mavino – Church of S. Anna della Rocca – Walk of the Muses up to Lido delle Bionde