Sirmione is above all famous for its spa with its curative thermal water, and the spectacular position on a promontory sticking into the lake.

Both the still waters of the lake and the bubbling sulphurous water of the natural springs have attracted bathers for over 2000 years.

In fact, it was the favourite weekend hangout for rich Roman families from Verona and the remains of the "Grotte di Catullo" villa can still be seen.

The defensive walls were built as the Roman Empire began to crumble and allowed the Longobards to control a vast area known as the 'Iudiciaria Sermionense'. The Venetians followed their example from the 15th century.

The town of Peschiera took over the defensive duties from the 17th century and Sirmione became a relaxed backwater with fishing, wine and olive cultivation the main worries.