The history of Goethe in Riva del Garda is being celebrated this week with a series of cultural events at the Museo Alto Garda (MAG). In September 1786, the German poet Wolfgang von Goethe arrived on the shores of Lake Garda, describing the landscape as a “marvelous effect of nature”.
The Impact of the Italian Journey
Traveling incognito under the name Jean Philippe Möller, Goethe was deeply impressed by the lake. During his visit to Malcesine, he sketched the panoramic views—an activity that led local authorities to temporarily suspect him of being a spy. His subsequent publication, Italienische Reise (1816-17), introduced the German public to the beauty of the region, effectively sparking the international tourism that still defines Lake Garda today. While exploring the eastern shore, tourists often visit the Scaliger Castle of Malcesine, the very fortress Goethe admired.
Weekly Events at Museo Alto Garda
This week, MAG offers a rich program connecting history, archaeology, and contemporary art:
- Friday, October 2 (18:00): Professor Emanuele Vaccaro from the University of Trento presents the archaeological findings from the Doss Penede excavations (2019-2026). Free entry.
- Saturday, October 3 (17:00): The official closing of the exhibition focusing on Italians in the SS (1943-1945), organized by ANPI Alto Garda.
- Sunday, October 3 (10:00-18:00): Free entry to all museum floors as part of the national #domenicaalmuseo initiative. Visitors can explore the temporary exhibition “Visitate il Garda” (open until October 18) and experience the new multisensory accessibility routes.
- Monday, October 4 (10:00-18:00): The Lampi Labs contemporary art workshops, organized by Luogo Comune. Morning sessions are dedicated to children, while afternoon sessions cater to adults. Booking is recommended via email.
New Opening Hours
Starting October 1, the museum adopts its autumn schedule. MAG and the Torre Apponale are open from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:00 and 18:00, discontinuing the evening openings. Forte Garda retains its regular hours and continues to host the exhibition “Dal fucile alla matita” until October 11.
