Castellaro Lagusello, Italy’s Heart‑Shaped Lake Village Attracts Romantic Tourists

Castellaro Lagusello, a medieval frazione of Monzambano in the province of Mantova, is famed for its heart‑shaped lake that makes it a popular destination for couples in northern Italy. The village, founded between the 12th and 13th centuries by the Scaligeri, later passed to the Republic of Venice, the Arrighi noble family, and served as a Napoleonic stronghold before becoming part of Lombardy in 1816. Its historic centre includes a castle with a square clock‑tower, the 12th‑century Church of San Nicola, and a private villa once owned by the Arrighi family. In 2011 the site was incorporated into the UNESCO World Heritage listing for “Ancient settlements of the Alpine region.” Visitors can explore the castle (admission fee applies), view medieval artworks, and sample local Mantovano cuisine such as capùnsei and gnocchetti in nearby osterie. The lake is accessible at certain times under the supervision of a local custodian.