In the past the Sebino, better known as Iseo Lake, was not as famous as the other big lakes of Lombardy; for this reason, if, on one hand, it did not turn into a tourist destination, on the other it preserved the delicate balance between man and nature. That made its fortune, too. As a matter of fact, today these characteristics have become a merit attracting a more attentive tourism. Ideal destination for sailing and windsurf lovers for the constant presence of wind, this lake offers an additional attraction: Monte Isola, the island arising from the centre of its waters. This huge rocky block of limestone and dolomite has a history of its own: the Romans stayed here, then it became a religious settlement and, ultimately, the domain of several noble families, the last of which was the Martinengo Family. Moreover, already in the mid-XV century, its small community of fishermen obtained some claims which were then perpetuated through centuries. Last, but not least, it has its own culture: in the small hamlets of the island, such as Menzino and Peschiera Travaglio, there are still today houses dating back to the XV-XVII centuries, as well as the Oldofredis' fortresses and the tower-houses of Siviano, now location of the Municipality offices.