Once upon a time...
A community called Sale...and Pumpkins
Long ago, this town was divided in 2 communities: Sale on the edge of the lake, and Marasino on the hills above, where as now it has about 3200 inhabitants and is divided into 12 distinct areas. The approximity to Montisola makes Sale Marasino one of the most busy ports on the lake. Part of this towns charm is the historical centre where the emergence of the various architectural styles over time can be clearly seen. More importantly and better known is the parish church of San Zenone, which rises alongside the main road only a few metres from the lake and the port, with important frescoes and paintings in its interior that date back to the middle of the ‘500. Enhancing further the appeal of this town has to be the annual Pumpkin Festival during which the National Pumpkin Competition takes place where dozens of agriculturists descend on Sale to battle it out for the title of who manages to grow the biggest pumpkins. The current record is little over 500kg growing to a height of just over a metre. The winner here goes on to compete in the European competition held each year in Geneva, Switzerland. The mountain area is characterized by the ancient Valeriana Roman road which criss-crosses it from Pisogne, through the communities of Marone, Sale Marasino, Sulzano and finally being interrupted in Iseo. It is a favoured path for strollers and hikers alike. In the months of April-May, the inhabitants of Sale are busy with the historical and cultural commemoration of this old road. They breathe life back into this fascinating and beautiful walk high above the lake with its breathtaking views each year by reproducing ancient and traditional costumes, traditions and medieval crafts typical of the region. Beautiful villas and mansions built on the edge of the lake worth mentioning and a visit are Casa Mazzucchelli, Palazzo Giugni,Villa Martinengo.
