Different interpretations have been given on the origins of the town's name: for some historians, it derives from the German name "Bardilo", while for others, from the Latin word "bardus" (singer). Bardolino is a municipality in the province of Verona, located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, in a hilly area on the border with Lombardy. A popular tourist resort and industrial center, Bardolino is famous for the producing of a fine wine, which has the same name.
The area was inhabited since Prehistoric times, thanks to the important presence of water. Important traces on the lower lake attest the presence of dwelling settlements, also used during the ages of the Roman colonization. The first historical documents, that mention the presence of a town, date back to the early Middle Ages, a period in which it was subjected to the Abbey of St. Colombano, and when great impetus was given to the cultivation of crops, vines and olives and their commercialization. In the IX century King Berengar authorized the construction of a castle and in the XII century the town was proclaimed independent municipality. In the first half of the XVI century, Bardolino, like all the other localities of the area, submitted the raids and looting by the Lanzichenecchi mercenary troops. Under the domain of Austria, in 1848, the inhabitants rebelled against the Habsburg Empire and, therefore, suffered harsh reprisals.
Attractions:
- the IX century Church of San Zeno, which is a rare example of Carolingian architecture. It features a single nave, Latin cross plan, with a square lantern and beautiful decorations;
- the XI century Monastery of St. Colombano;
- the Parish Church of Santa Maria in Cisano, which has been built where once stood an early pagan temple and later a church dating from the VII century;
- the XII century Church of San Severo, in Romanesque style, is decorated with an interesting cycle of frescoes;
- the Church of St. Nicholas, built in the first half of the XIX century and designed by the architect Giuliari;
- the XVIII century Church of San Vito in Cortellini;
- the remains of the XII century fortified walls;
- the XIX century Villa Bottagisio;
- the XIX century Villa Guerrieri;
- Villa Bassani-Raimondi;
- Casa Ottolenghi;
- Villa Betteloni;
- Villa Giuliari;
- Villa Marzan.