Limone
is a lively resort on the upper western shore of Lake Garda.
This is where the lake is narrow, the cliffs are high (striking),
olive trees, citrus trees and flowers grow with abandon on the hillsides
because the climate is mild. And, while there are loads of lemons
here — the town is named after the latin word Limen which means
border and not the lemon. After reading some rather intense medical
articles on this town, I came to see what all the fuss was about —
food of course: In 1979 a protein (called Apolipoprotein A-1 Milano)
was discovered in the blood of the people in this town — this
protein removes fat from the arteries very rapidly, moving it through
the body to elimination…..the cause, the diet based on pasta,
fish, olive oil, fruits (mostly citrus) — all local — all
available — very Mediterranean…..this does make one think
— doesn’t it? So, I came to get recipes, to relax and see
the beauty of this part of the lake.
The historic center or old
town is worth the stroll…crooked streets, quaint squares, flowers,
shops, cafes, interesting decorations on the buildings and the harbour
with it’s pastel-colored fishermen’s houses — yes,
this chic little town started out as a fishing village. A stop at
the parish church of San Benedetto (17th century)
to see the paintings — "The Deposition"/16th
century/Battista D’Angolo and "Adoration of the Three Kings"
as well as "Supper in the House of Simon the Pharisee"/16th
and 15th centuries/Andrea Celesti. Be sure to see the altar
(fabulously Baroque) and the carvings throughout the church. Among
the olive groves on the hillside (between Limone and Tremosine) you’ll
find the Parrocchiale De San Pietro in Vincoli (14th
century), a Gothic church with fine frescoes. On another hill you’ll
find the lovely San Rocco Church (16th century)
that was built as a thank you for sparing the village from the plague.
Now, if you wish to partake of water sports — this is a good
town to do just that!