The Moraine Hill Walk

A 170 km-route to discover the historic and cultural roots of the provinces of Mantua and Brescia.

The Moraine Hills of Lower Garda, which originate from the withdrawal of the immense glacier that shaped Lake Garda in times long past, are a jewel in terms of landscape, set between the provinces of Mantua and Brescia, and are one of the areas that simply must be visited when touring northern Lombardy while enjoying a “slow” holiday, walking or using one of the many cycle touring routes available.

This area, which occupies the whole southern side of the lake, pushing inland for several dozen kilometres, and can boast a history packed with events and personality that have moulded the cultural identity of the region.

In 2022, Associazione Colline Moreniche del Garda (Moraine Hills of Garda Association) celebrated its thirty-fifth year of activity, an example of longevity for an association of supralocal authorities, which has brought together eleven municipalities under its wing, by operating as a not-for-profit organisation. But 2022 also saw the inauguration of an ambitious project: the Journey of Faith and Solidarity, a route 170 km long to take you through the lives of three great saints, adding to the religious aspect with the stunning landscape of the Moraine Hills.

History and Mission of Associazione Colline Moreniche del Garda

Associazione Colline Moreniche del Garda is a unique example of collaboration between municipalities in Italy. Founded with the aim of capitalising on the resources and culture of the Moraine Hills, it has succeeded in bringing eleven municipalities under a single flag. In thirty-five years of activity, the association has worked ceaselessly to promote the beauty and cultural wealth of Lombardy, creating a range of characteristic routes and itineraries that connect the numerous villages and natural terraces that are so typical of the area. It has lasted so long because it is the result of the shared vision of its founders: to recognise and showcase the potential of the Moraine Hills of Lower Garda as a regional treasure to preserve and to use in different ways.

The Path of Faith and Solidarity: Spiritual Stages in Nature and History

The Path has been designed to bring pilgrims and visitors the direct experience of getting to know the birthplaces and lives of three important saints: St Aloysius de Gonzaga in Castiglione delle Stiviere, Blessed Paola Montaldi in Volta Mantovana and St Angela Merici in Desenzano del Garda. The main theme of the journey, i.e., the religious aspect, is enriched by the beauty and variety of the landscape encountered en route. However, the path is not just about religion, it is also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Moraine Hills. It was in these hills that the idea of the Red Cross was born in 1859, when the founder of the organisation, Henry Dunant was in the area.

The Stages of the Path

The Path of Faith and Solidarity is a jewel for the region, an itinerary 170 km long, encapsulating both spirituality and solidarity. As well as historic monuments and museums, visitors can explore unique natural areas, the habitat of numerous birds and plants, and also enjoy a wealth of traditional local cuisine. Tortelli, capunsei, typical charcuterie, and fine wines are just a taste of what this vast area has to offer. Along the Path of Faith and Solidarity, pilgrims have opportunities to take a break by enjoying some of the rich, nourishing local cuisine, as well as discovering the many gastronomic delights of the Moraine Hills

Desenzano del Garda (BS) — Desenzano del Garda in the province of Brescia, is the birthplace of St Angela Merici, founder of the Ursuline Order and patron saint of the town. It is located on the southern shore of Lake Garda and it offers a wealth of history and culture. Among its main attractions, we should mention the castle overlooking the whole town, which offers panoramic views over the lake; a Roman villa from the 4th century CE, with many multicoloured mosaics; and the Civic Museum, which contains a collection of archaeological and artistic objects. Beaches and crystalline waters make Desenzano a popular tourist destination.

Castiglione delle Stiviere (MN) — Castiglione delle Stiviere, in the province of Mantua, is the birthplace of Saint Aloysius de Gonzaga, one of the Saints on the Path of Faith and Solidarity, the world patron for Youth, who renounced the privileges of his noble origins to dedicate himself to the sick. The heart of the town is Piazza Dallò, which in ancient times had the role of castrum. Another important point of interest is the International Museum of the Red Cross. It also boasts the Teatro Sociale, opened in 1843, and other attractions such as the Castle with Gonzaga-period walls, Palazzo and Parco Pastore, Palazzo Menghini, and Palazzo Bondoni Pastorio.

Solferino (MN) — Solferino, in the province of Mantua is well known for being the site of the Battle of Solferino and San Martino, on 24 June 1859, where Napoleon III defeated the Austrian army. The battle was one of the bloodiest in European history, with over 40,000 dead and injured. The battle was the inspiration for Jean Henri Dunant from Geneva, who was at the battle site, and who went on to found the International Committee of the Red Cross (CICR) in 1863. Solferino was under the rule of the Gonzaga family. Their Rocca or fortress (known as the "Spy of Italy") remains as evidence of this period, and benefits from stunning views right down to Lake Garda.

Cavriana (MN) — Cavriana, in the province of Mantua, has witnessed important historic events, such as the Peace of Cremona in 1441, which marked the conclusion of an armistice between the Republic of Venice and the Duchy of Milan. The town was also chosen by the Gonzaga family, rulers of Mantua, for holidays and recreation; it was also the general headquarters of the Austrians in 1797. Napoleon III stayed here in 1859, after his victory in Solferino. Places worth visiting include Villa Mirra, home to the Alto Mantovano archaeological museum; the Municipal Library; and the Torcolo Fountain, which takes its water from a natural spring.

Medole (MN) — Medole is a small municipality in the province of Mantua. The centre of town is grouped around an old castle and a vast square. Overlooking the square is the parish church of Santa Maria Assunta with its altar piece by Titian, “Christ Appearing to his Mother after his Resurrection”. The Gonzaga Tower houses the Civic art collection, which focuses on contemporary art. There is also the ex-Augustinian convent of the Annunciata, the remains of which consist of Gothic cloisters, rooms with vaulted and panelled ceilings, and a small church. (Credits: fondoambiente.it)

Guidizzolo (MN) — Guidizzolo, in the province of Mantua, dates back to prehistoric times, and was the site of various settlements, including the largest, at Dossodaione. For many years it was contested by the rulers of Mantua and Brescia, finally becoming part of the Duchy of Mantua, before being occupied by the Austrians. In 1859 the town - particularly, the contrada of Rebecco - was involved in the battle of Solferino and San Martino, In the centre of the town is a Civic Tower overlooking Piazzale Marconi, just a stone’s throw from the Town Hall. In Via Vittorio Veneto, you will find shops, the old site of the Theatre, and the town’s most important buildings.

Volta Mantovana (MN) — Volta Mantovana, in the province of Mantua, is the birthplace of the Blessed Paola Montaldi. It overlooks the Mincio Valley and extends to the foot of a mediaeval Castle. In the centre of town we find: Palazzo Cavriani, which once belonged to the Gonzaga family and now home to the municipal authority, surrounded by a charming Italian-style garden; Villa Venier, a renovated structure that was once a convent for Dominican nuns. The old stables, now used for exhibitions and important cultural events, are located in the square in front of Palazzo Cavriani. A famous local typical dish is Capunsei (bread dumplings).

Goito (MN) — Goito, in the province of Mantua, is surrounded by the River Mincio valley. It was first under Gonzaga rule before becoming one of the sites of Italy’s War of Independence from 1848. The village is laid out like a chequerboard and can be reached over a bridge known as the "Ponte della Gloria", which has the Monument to the Bersaglieri corps on the left. Along the banks of the River Mincio, is the eclectic Villa Giraffa and the elegant Villa Moschini. There are also some protected areas: The Valli di Camignana, Bertone Park, Isola della Fragola, the old watermill on the river and the Castle of Cerlongo. (Credits: comune.goito.mn.it)

Marmirolo (MN) — In Marmirolo, in the province of Mantua, most of the area is influenced by the presence of the Mincio Park. The Fontana Wood is well worth a visit. It was once part of the Gonzaga hunting reserve, and includes avenues to access the forest and a small 17th-century palazzo, which has been a national monument since 1921, close to the spring that gives the wood its name. The Marmirolo area is also on the route of the cycle path between Mantua and Peschiera del Garda, which is most popular with cycling enthusiasts. (Credits: parcodelmincio.it)

Monzambano (MN) — Monzambano, in the province of Mantua, stands on a moraine cape that offers spectacular panoramic views over the surrounding area. Places to visit include the old Castle, which dates back to the 12th century, and the Parish Church of San Michele, where you will find paintings by Cignaroli and Ugolini. Also in the area of Monzambano is Villa Conti Cipolla, an example of 19th century Art Nouveau architecture, and the historic centre of Castellaro Lagusello, recognised as one of “Italy’s most beautiful villages” and also awarded the Italian Touring Club Orange Flag.

Pozzolengo (BS) — Pozzolengo, in the province of Brescia, is overlooked by an imposing Castle, built on the peak of Mount Fluno around the year 1000. The castle contains a fortified mediaeval village that is still lived in today. There is also the Parish Church of San Lorenzo, with its 17th-century organ; Palazzo Gelmetti, now the town hall; and Residenza Piavoli and Residenza Brighenti. In the 19th century, Pozzolengo was the site of various battles, including the Battle of San Martino and Solferino on 24 June 1859. (Credits: comune.pozzolengo.bs.it)

Ponti sul Mincio (MN) — Ponti sul Mincio, in the province of Mantua, is just 4 km from Lake Garda. The village dates back to mediaeval times and is home to the remains of an old Della Scala Castle. The oldest part of the village contains a Parish Church dating back to the Renaissance, with inside a Virgin and Child from the 18th century and traces of a 15th-century fresco. It is well known for its wealth of traditional foods and wines, and represents the main centre of DOC wine production locally. The countryside is criss-crossed by cycle paths, with leading to mediaeval villages along the route. (Credits: bandierearancioni.it)

The Heart of the Red Cross, a Story of Compassion and Civility

It was in the Moraine Hills of Lower Garda that the idea was born for the Red Cross, a humanitarian organisation with a global reach and the aim not to differentiate between friends and enemies on the battlefield. In 1859, the presence of Henry Dunant during the Battle of Solferino, inspired the idea of impartial assistance that marked the start of an important story of popular compassion and humanity. The Battle of Solferino is remembered not only for having been the first step towards Italian national unity but also for inspiring Dunant to found the International Red Cross. Distressed by the sight of the dead and injured who received their initial care from the population, Dunant had the idea to create a corps of volunteers who could assist all of the wounded in battle without differentiating between nationality, religion or social status.

All the information on the Path of Faith and Solidarity are available at Moraine Hills website.