Sirmio
Sirmione is a picturesque peninsula located at the southern end of Lake Garda in Lombardy, Italy. Stretching approximately two and a half miles long and only about one hundred and thirty yards wide in certain areas, it is known for its serene beauty and historical significance. The area was a favored summer retreat for Romans, particularly due to its natural sulphur springs. Sirmione is notably associated with the Roman poet Catullus, who revered its landscape and claimed ownership of a villa there, as depicted in his poetry. The remnants of this villa are believed to be linked to the "Grottos of Catullus," which consist of structures dating back to the mid-first century BC. Over time, a larger villa was constructed on the site, featuring gardens, porticos, fountains, and exquisite wall paintings that reflect the artistic achievements of the era. Sirmione's rich history and stunning surroundings make it a popular destination for visitors interested in ancient Roman culture and natural beauty.
Subject Terms
Sirmio
(Sirmione)
A peninsula, two and a half miles long and in places only one hundred and thirty yards wide, at the southern end of Lake Benacus (Garda) in Cisalpine Gaul (north Italy), near the road from Brixia (Brescello) to Verona. A favorite Roman summer residence (containing sulphur springs, which rise in the lake) Sirmio was praised for its beauty in a famous poem of Catullus (c 84–54), who describes himself as its `master,’ indicating that he owned a villa there. This residence has been identified, though without any firm evidence, with the `Grottos of Catullus,’ comprising remains of a building of about the mid-first century BC, on which a larger villa, with a garden, portico, fountains and fine wall paintings, was superimposed in the middle or second half of the following century.