Bolsena is a true “volcanic miracle” that has occurred between Rome and Tuscany. The beautiful lake, surrounded by small towns, is the largest volcanic lake in Europe: it extends for as many as 43 kilometers.
In addition to the huge square, Bolsena boasts its own interesting history. 370 thousand years ago, a strong earthquake caused by the eruption of the mighty volcano Vulsini formed a funnel, which was later filled with water. Submarine eruptions following the earthquake contributed to the creation of two islands: Bisentina and Martana, now located in the southern part of the lake.
Once Bolsena was in the territory inhabited by the Etruscans, representatives of ancient civilization. Today, the lake and the medieval city of the same name standing on its shore are widely known in Italy thanks to an amazing legend that tells a mysterious story that happened in 1263.
Legend
In 1263, one local priest doubted that Jesus Christ actually existed. Frightened by his thoughts, he went to Rome to strengthen his faith there. On the way back, he stopped at the church of St. Cristina (San Cristina) in Bolsen, where the service was taking place.
Before the priest had time to break the bread for communion, suddenly blood began to drip from the bread, which stained the floor and fell on the clothes of the minister of the altar. Having interrupted the mass, the priest immediately went to the city of Orvieto, where Pope Urban IV lived in those days. The pontiff carefully listened to the clergyman who addressed him and forgave his sins.
A few days later, the Pope asked to bring him relics that left traces of blood, and placed them in his residence in Orvieto, where he later erected a large cathedral. And to this day, the inhabitants of Bolsena hide an insult to the inhabitants of Orvieto. However, there is an opinion that the blood on the plates of the cathedral, where a miracle happened, can be seen today.
Nature miracle
Do not forget that Lake Bolsena itself is also a miracle. True, a miracle of nature. Its total area is 113.5 square kilometers, and it is considered the largest volcanic lake in Europe.
In Italy, Bolsena is the fifth largest lake, which, nevertheless, justifiably can be called unique. Black sandy beaches stretch for many kilometers, attracting many tourists from year to year who come here not only to swim, but also to go fishing and water sports. In addition to people, Bolsena Lake was also chosen by birds: whom you just will not meet here! And the blackstarted redstart, and red-headed duck, and coot, and gray heron, and, of course, swans, gulls and ducks.
Great location
Lake Bolsena, as already mentioned, is spread between Rome and Tuscany. A quiet and peaceful place where your peace will not disturb anything and where you can get quite easily and quickly. You should not limit yourself to just walking along the lake, take a trip to the cities located on its shore: Bolsena, Montefiascone, Capodimonte - all these places have their own amazing history, local traditions and each is worthy to spend there a few days of your independent travels in Italy.
Fishing on Lake Bolsena
Beautiful volcanic lake will be a real paradise for fishing lovers. Every year on July 2, a fish festival is held in the city of Bolsena of the same name, which invariably attracts crowds of fishermen who seek to demonstrate their skills in using and using gear.
A huge number of inhabitants live in crystal clear waters, but not all species are attracted to fishermen. So, most often all attention is focused on fishing for carps, of which there are a lot.
Nevertheless, local authorities are trying to moderate the ardor of visiting fishermen. They introduced some restrictions on fishing, including by type and weight of prey. So, for example, the legislation prohibits tourists from catching more than 10 fish chub per day, and the length of these individuals should not exceed 20 centimeters.
In addition to the chub and carp, fishermen are also interested in fish species such as pike, black bass and many others.
How to get to Lake Bolsena from Rome
Getting to Bolsen from Rome is easy for you. You just need to follow the highway in the direction of Cassia (Cassia) or the main motorway A1, which connects Rome and Florence, and turn after the sign on Orte (Orte) or Orvieto (Orvieto). You can compare car rental prices in Italy with different companies using the auto.italy4.me service
Where to stay?
In Bolsena, there are 24 accommodation options in hotels and apartments. The average price of a double room per day is in the range of 45-60 euros, so in terms of price / atmosphere it is a very worthy option to spend several days there enjoying the beauties of the lake.
