Historic port of Toscolano

The historic port of Toscolano, found in Via Porto in Toscolano Maderno, is an enchanting corner of history with all of the charm that comes from a period from years gone by. This picturesque place was, between the 15th and 18th centuries, a sorting system for paper and iron, with boats regularly setting out for Venice, making it a crossroads for trade and culture.

The most noble families in the area chose this strategic place for their residences and it is here that today it is still possible to admire splendid historical buildings. One such building is Palazzo Delai,dating back to the 17th century, located on the left side of the square. This building is well known for the fine frescos on the outside and for the fact it was once the home of famous artist Andrea Celesti. Celesti was here as a guest of his friend, Scipione Delai and during his stay, he painted numerous canvases that are now on display in Brescia.

Alongside the historic buildings, the port is still flanked by numerous lemon groves, living proof of the traditional farming of the area. These structures, which can still be seen from the jetty, together with the lovely lakeside gardens, offer charming views as well as a hint of the farming past of Toscolano Maderno.

The lemon groves of the port reveal a time in which growing citrus fruit - and lemons in particular - was one of the main sources of local income. It was introduced by Franciscan monks in the 13th century and continued until the early 20th. Citrus fruit grown here was exported throughout Europe, but it was abandoned once it was no longer competitive on the marketplace.

The historic port of Toscolano is more than a scenic beauty spot, it is also a site of great historic and cultural value, telling of a past where trade flourished and agriculture flourished, a past that is still evident in its structures and its very atmosphere.

 

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