Desenzano’s New Park: 120,000 sqm of Green Space Near Lake Garda

For the first time in its history, Desenzano will have its own large green park. A splendid green space in an attractive location, offering an unparalleled panorama: on one side the countryside, on the other Lake Garda, the Sirmione peninsula, and further back, the Rocca di Manerba. Excavators will begin shaping this area, known for now as the “Parco delle Piscine” (Pool Park), within which, remarkably, a small pond with a shape resembling Lake Garda extends. Unless setbacks occur, according to forecasts made by the Public Works Assessor Tommaso Giardino during the official project presentation, the park should be handed over to the residents by next summer, at the latest in autumn. Certainly, this is a project destined to go down in the history of the Garda town, because over 120,000 square meters of green space, with countless infrastructures and services, is no small feat. The pond alone covers nearly 5,000 square meters. A true work, a lung, that has been sorely missed. The only parks so far are located near the lakeside promenade or along the state highway, in disadvantaged positions because people tend not to go there: with the air unbreathable due to vehicle emissions passing just a few steps away, how can one blame the residents? Instead, this is a “fine” park, perhaps a bit outside the historic center, but still easily accessible by car and very close to the town’s new, more densely populated area. There’s also the convenience of nearby parking lots.

History and Features of the Park

The Parco delle Piscine, located behind the sports center (including the swimming pool and the “Tre Stelle” municipal stadium) on Via Giotto, was already outlined in the old Desenzano master plan. An area that, to prevent being acquired by real estate speculators, has remained untouched and was designated for both residents of Desenzano and tourists. The previous Rocca administration, with some variations that also caused controversy with the opposition, managed to acquire the entire area free of charge through an agreement with private companies, Gilmar and Dolcini. Subsequently, the current center-right administration, led by Mayor Cino Anelli, finalized the project, bringing the park and its executive plan prepared by the municipal Technical Office to fruition. Nearly 700 million lire will be covered by private funds, while over half a billion will be paid by the municipality.

The entire site is owned by the municipal government. Now, a glance at what the citizens will see in six months: the main entrances will be located on Via Giotto, Via Comboni, and Via Michelangelo, near the parking lots. The entire green area will be fenced; security and maintenance staff will be appointed through an agreement. Inside, pathways suitable for cycling and walking will be marked, and there will be a kiosk-bar as well as points—though not yet confirmed—where visitors can stop for a picnic.

Numerous benches will be installed, and the grass will be kept in its natural flora, meaning it will not be mowed in English style. For children and even adults, the plan includes a small soccer field, a skating rink, three basketball courts, and other sports facilities, with ramps for people with disabilities. Assessor Giardino was also joined by Engineer Lorenzo Peretti, head of the Technical Office, along with some Forza Italia councilors led by group leader Lorenzo Cipriani, who recalled his party’s commitment to completing many public works.

Looking ahead, Maria Stella Gelmini emphasized that the Golden Beach—a highly anticipated project—along with the lakeside promenade of Rivoltella and the underpass of Via Pratomaggiore, should be ready soon.