The Lago d'Iseo (Lake Iseao; alt. 185m/611ft; area 62 sq,km/24 sq.mi; greatest depth 251m/824ft), is an attractive lake rich in fish, and known to the Romans as Lacus Sebinus. It is one of the most beautiful Alpine lakes, dominated on the east by Monte Gugliemo (1,949m/6,432ft; climbed from Marone in 4.5 hours). The largest river flowing into
the lake is the Oglio, which leaves it again at Sarnico. In the middle of the lake lies the steep sided Monte Isola (559m/1,845ft), an island 3km/2mi long, covered with dense chestnut forests. On the highest point stands the pilgrimage church of the Madonna della Ceriola (views). At the southeast extremity of the island lies the fishing village of Peschiera Maraglio, at its northwestern end the village of Siviano, at its southwestern tip Sensole. On the south side of the lake the little port of Iseo (198m/653ft) has an interesting parish church and an old Scaliger castle. At the northern end of the lake the small town of Lovere (208m/686ft; pop. 7,000) boasts the fine Renaissance church of Santa Maria in Valvendra (15th century; Baroque interior) and the Accademia Tadini, a picture gallery. From the lakeside promenade there are beautiful views.