Islands on Lake Trasimeno

Isola Polvese

At over 69 hectares, this is the largest and southernmost of the three islands on the lake. It was populated by a large community until the late 1950s, but today is uninhabited, being intended as a public park.

Several interesting historical relics remain on the island, including a 14th century castle, the Monastery of San Secondo, and the Church of San Giuliano.

More recent buildings provide scientific, educational and recreational facilities. To this aim the castle has also recently been restored, and in 1995 The Garden of Aquatic Plants was created by restoring a pool that had been excavated from an abandoned sandstone quarry.

Isola Minore

Isola Minore is the smallest of the three islands on Lake Trasimeno. Now a private island, it was very popular until the 15th century, when the last inhabitants, under constant attack by bandits, transferred themselves to the mainland.

Isola Maggiore

This is the second largest of the three Trasimeno islands. Its name is connected with the legend of Francesco di Assisi, who is said to have stayed there during a stormy night in 1211.

Isola Maggiore still maintains the appearance of a 15th century fishing village. Buildings of interest include the lace museum, the 14th century Documentation Centre, and two 12th century churches: the Church of the Holy Saviour, built in a Roman-Gothic style, and the Church of St Michael Archangel, which includes 13th and 14th century frescoes by the Umbrian School.