Church of Sant'Anna della Misericordia - Image 1
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Sant'Anna della Misericordia

4.7
·187 reviews·Sirmione, Italy

A medieval gem on Lake Garda, Sirmione captivates with its Scaliger Castle, Roman ruins, and turquoise waters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Church of Sant'Anna della Misericordia - Image 1

Sant'Anna della Misericordia

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A medieval gem on Lake Garda, Sirmione captivates with its Scaliger Castle, Roman ruins, and turquoise waters.

4.7
(187 reviews)

"Sirmione is a beautiful historic town on Lake Garda, a must-see for its castle and charming streets."

Vertical photo
TIP

Park outside the ZTL

Park in public lots before entering the historic center to avoid fines. :car:

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scaliger Castle

Scaliger Castle

Sirmione Old Town

A stunning medieval fortress jutting into Lake Garda, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into history.

Grotte di Catullo

Grotte di Catullo

Northern tip of Sirmione Peninsula

Impressive Roman ruins of a grand villa, set amidst olive groves with panoramic lake views.

Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca

Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca

Adjacent to Scaliger Castle

A charming, small 14th-century church with peaceful frescoes and votive offerings.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Sirmione's Charm

Sirmione can get very crowded, especially during peak season. Consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.

Navigating Sirmione's ZTL

The historic center of Sirmione is a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL). If you're arriving by car, you'll need to park in designated public parking areas outside the old town and walk in. Plan for this to avoid fines.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Beautiful sunset views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✅ Kövessetek be további utazási tippekért ✅ Olaszország utazási tippek 🇮🇹📍Sirmione 🏖️ elhelyezkedés: Észak-Olaszország, Lombardia régió, a Garda-tó déli részén 🚗 kocsival Budapestről ~8-9 óra, érdemes több várost is megnézni, van az oldalamon egy körutazási videó erről ✅ 🌅 egy ritka keskeny félszigeten fekszik, ami a Garda-tóba nyúlik bele 🌊 türkizkék víz jellemzi, mediterrán éghajlatú, így nyáron...
@anna.utazik
16K likes • 348.4K views

Park outside the ZTL

Park in public lots before entering the historic center to avoid fines. :car: TikTok

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. :athletic_shoe:

Sirmione: El paraíso escondido del Lago de Garda que debes visitar en Italia🇮🇹✨ 🏰La Joya medieval en el sur del Lago de Garda🌊 🚗 Cómo llegar a Sirmione: 1. En coche: • Desde Verona: autopista A4, salida Sirmione (40 min). • Desde Milán: autopista A4, 1h30 aprox. • Aparcar en los parkings públicos antes de entrar al casco histórico (zona ZTL). 2. En tren + bus: • Tren a Desenzano del Garda o ...
@viajarconchris
11.4K likes • 248.6K views
L'attuale chiesa di Sant'Anna la Misericordia sorse, in quello che una volta era il "Piano della Misericordia", nel 1632.Il progetto della chiesa fu affidato all'architetto senatoriale Mariano Smiriglio nel 1606, il quale incorporò in questo nuovo progetto l'antica chiesa della "Madonna della Pietà"(1470), che fin d'allora era affidata ai Padri del Terz'ordine di San Francesco. Tante difficoltà, d...
siciliamondo.palermo
232 likes • 3.5K views

Visit early or late

Beat the crowds by arriving early morning or late afternoon. :clock:

Enjoy lake views

Take time to admire the turquoise waters of Lake Garda. :blue_heart:

🖤 Caravaggio, The Seven Works of Mercy, c.1607, Oil on canvas, 390 × 260 cm, Pio Monte della Misericordia, Naples Merhametin Yedi Biçimi, nasıl müthiş bir resim. Katolik inancındaki yedi merhametin tek tabloda tasviri. Açları doyurmak, susuzlara su vermek, çıplakları giydirmek, yabancıları barındırmak, hastaları ziyaret etmek, mahkumları ziyaret etmek ve ölüleri gömmek. özellikle; sağ tarafta ma...
umbertoarte
344 likes • 7.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Park outside the ZTL

Park in public lots before entering the historic center to avoid fines. :car: TikTok

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. :athletic_shoe:

Visit early or late

Beat the crowds by arriving early morning or late afternoon. :clock:

Enjoy lake views

Take time to admire the turquoise waters of Lake Garda. :blue_heart:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(187 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Sirmione for its stunning medieval castle, picturesque lakefront, and charming old town. The Grotte di Catullo offers a fascinating historical site with beautiful views. However, many note that the town can become extremely crowded, impacting the overall experience.

"📍 Chiesa di Sant’Anna della Rocca – Sirmione, Lake Garda, Italy 🇮🇹
A small 14th-century church ⛪ located just beside Scaliger Castle 🏰. Simple and quiet inside, with frescoes 🎨 and votive offerings that reflect its history as a chapel for soldiers and guards. It’s easy to visit as you stroll through the old town 🚶‍♂️, and offers a peaceful moment away from the crowds 🌿. Not a long stop, but worth a look if you’re exploring Sirmione."

Quing_刘妈妈

"A exquisite small church just through the south gate & adjacent to the Rocca Scaligera. A lovely altar & fine stained glass windows the perfect place for quiet moment."

paul appleby

"Super small church you can easily missed. There are approximately 36 seats in the church. Just next to the castle."

Pauline Yoong

What People Like

Beautiful castle and lake views
Charming medieval streets
Historical Grotte di Catullo

What People Dislike

Overcrowding
High prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sirmione is accessible by car, with highways leading from Verona and Milan.TikTok If driving, be aware of the ZTL in the historic center and use designated parking lots. Public transport options include buses and ferries from other Lake Garda towns.

Yes, Sirmione is a picturesque town situated on a narrow peninsula that juts into the southern part of Lake Garda in Northern Italy.TikTok

The historic center is best explored on foot due to its narrow streets and ZTL. For reaching Sirmione from other towns, ferries offer scenic routes across Lake Garda.

Sirmione is approximately a 40-minute drive from Verona via the A4 motorway.TikTok

No, you cannot drive into the historic center of Sirmione as it is a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone). You must park in the public parking areas outside the old town.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the town of Sirmione itself is free. However, tickets are required for specific attractions like Scaliger Castle and the Grotte di Catullo.

Opening hours for Scaliger Castle can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Yes, there is an entrance fee to visit the archaeological site of the Grotte di Catullo. Prices can be found on their official website.

Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca is a small church and is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's located right next to Scaliger Castle.

Wandering through the charming streets of the old town, enjoying the lake views, and visiting the exterior of Scaliger Castle are free activities.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Explore Scaliger Castle, wander through the medieval streets, visit the Grotte di Catullo, relax by Lake Garda, and enjoy the local cuisine. The Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca offers a quiet moment.Reddit

Sirmione can be very crowded, especially during peak tourist season (summer) and on weekends. Visiting during shoulder seasons or off-peak hours is recommended to avoid large crowds.Reddit

The Grotte di Catullo are the ruins of a large Roman villa located at the northern tip of the Sirmione peninsula, offering insights into ancient Roman life and beautiful lake vistas.

Scaliger Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century, built by the Scaliger family of Verona. It served as a defensive stronghold on the lake.

This is a small, historic church near Scaliger Castle, dating back to the 14th century. It features frescoes and votive offerings and provides a peaceful retreat.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Sirmione offers delicious Italian cuisine, with a focus on fresh lake fish, pasta dishes, and local wines. Gelato is also a must-try!

Yes, Sirmione has a variety of restaurants, from casual trattorias to more upscale dining options, many offering beautiful lake views.

Try local specialties like Risotto al Pesce (fish risotto), fresh lake fish preparations, and regional pasta dishes. Don't forget to sample some local olive oil and wine.

While Sirmione can be a bit pricey, looking for smaller trattorias away from the main tourist paths or opting for pizza and gelato can offer more budget-friendly choices.

Most restaurants will offer vegetarian options, such as pasta with vegetable sauces, salads, and pizzas. It's always a good idea to ask your server.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of Scaliger Castle from various angles, the panoramic views from the Grotte di Catullo, the charming narrow streets, and the picturesque lakefront. The Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca also offers a quaint photo opportunity.Reddit

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photography. Early mornings also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.

A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the castle and expansive lake views.

Drone usage is typically restricted in historic areas and near attractions. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.

Explore the smaller alleyways, capture reflections in the lake, and photograph details like ancient doorways and flower-filled balconies for unique perspectives.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sirmione offers a delightful experience for families. The Scaliger Castle is a hit with kids, who can imagine themselves as knights defending the fortress. The Grotte di Catullo provides open spaces for children to explore and run around, with the added bonus of stunning lake views. Consider a boat trip on Lake Garda for a fun and refreshing activity. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as prices can be higher within the historic center.

💰 Budget Travelers

While Sirmione can be an expensive destination, budget travelers can still enjoy its charm. Focus on free activities like exploring the town's streets and enjoying the lake views. Pack your own picnic to enjoy by the lake or in the park near the Grotte di Catullo. Look for pizzerias or smaller trattorias away from the main tourist drag for more affordable meals. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) can also lead to lower accommodation prices.

❤️ Couples

Sirmione is a wonderfully romantic destination. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand through the charming medieval streets, share a gelato by the lake, and soak in the sunset views from the Grotte di Catullo. A boat tour on Lake Garda, perhaps at sunset, offers a truly magical experience. The intimate atmosphere of the Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca also provides a peaceful spot for couples to enjoy a quiet moment together.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Sirmione's Medieval Heart

Sirmione's historic center is a treasure trove of medieval architecture, dominated by the imposing Scaliger Castle. This 13th-century fortress, with its distinctive drawbridge and battlements, offers a dramatic entrance to the town. Visitors can explore its courtyards and climb the tower for panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding landscape.TikTok Wandering through the narrow, cobblestone streets reveals charming shops, cafes, and glimpses of ancient buildings, creating an immersive historical experience.

The Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca is a small but significant historical site located adjacent to the castle. This 14th-century church, though simple, contains frescoes and votive offerings that speak to its long history as a chapel for soldiers and guards.Reddit It provides a quiet sanctuary amidst the bustling town, offering a moment of reflection and a chance to appreciate the subtle beauty of religious art. The church's proximity to the castle makes it an easy and worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the area.

The Roman Legacy: Grotte di Catullo

At the northernmost tip of the Sirmione peninsula lie the Grotte di Catullo, the remains of a grand Roman villa. Despite the name 'Grotte' (caves), these are the extensive ruins of a luxurious residence that once belonged to the Roman poet Catullus. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman architecture and lifestyle, with well-preserved foundations, columns, and remnants of frescoes.TikTok The sheer scale of the villa is impressive, hinting at the wealth and status of its original inhabitants.

Beyond the historical significance, the Grotte di Catullo boasts breathtaking natural beauty. The ruins are set amidst fragrant olive groves, and the location provides unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Garda. Visitors can stroll through the archaeological park, imagining life in Roman times while enjoying the serene atmosphere and the sparkling blue waters. It's a perfect spot for both history buffs and those seeking scenic beauty.

Caravaggio's Masterpiece: Pio Monte della Misericordia

While not in Sirmione, the Pio Monte della Misericordia in Naples is a significant site related to the theme of 'Misericordia' (mercy), as seen in the church of Sant'Anna della Misericordia. This institution houses Caravaggio's iconic painting, 'The Seven Works of Mercy'.Instagram+2 This powerful Baroque masterpiece depicts the corporal works of mercy in a dynamic and dramatic composition, showcasing Caravaggio's signature chiaroscuro technique.

The Pio Monte della Misericordia itself is a Baroque church and charitable institution founded in the early 17th century. It was established to provide aid to the poor and sick, embodying the very principles of mercy that Caravaggio so vividly portrayed in his art.Instagram Visiting this site offers a profound connection to the artistic and charitable spirit of Naples, highlighting how art can serve as a powerful expression of faith and compassion.

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