Mesola, a charming town located in the heart of the Po Delta, is the perfect destination for those seeking a holiday immersed in unspoiled nature, Renaissance history, and authentic local flavors

South of the Po di Goro, the river branch marking the border between Veneto and Emilia-Romagna, Mesola offers a rich and fascinating past, preserved through its architecture, forests, and waterways.

A Land Reclaimed from the Sea

Until the 10th century, the area where Mesola now stands was still submerged by the sea. Only with the gradual advancement of the coastline did a strip of land emerge, changing hands over the centuries. In the 15th century, the House of Este acquired the territory and turned it into an exclusive hunting reserve, launching an ambitious economic and urban project.

Although the Este dynasty’s plans ended with the fall of their rule in Ferrara, their legacy remains visible in the area’s architecture and culture. Over time, the region passed under Austrian, Papal, and then French control. In the early 20th century, major land reclamation works transformed Mesola into the thriving locality we see today.

What to Visit in Mesola

The Castle of Mesola – A Must-See Este Residence

The Castle of Mesola, built between 1578 and 1583 by order of Alfonso II d’Este, is one of the 19 renowned Este Delights—leisure residences of the Ferrarese nobility. Located in Piazza Umberto I, the castle features four towering battlements, large windows, and a design that combines military fortification with aristocratic elegance.

Today, it houses the Museum of the Deer and the Mesola Forest, showcasing the habitat and history of the Mesola deer, the only native deer species in peninsular Italy. The museum route includes educational panels, environmental reconstructions, and historical references linking this symbolic animal to Renaissance court traditions and Christian iconography.

The Great Mesola Forest – A Natural Treasure to Explore

Just outside the town lies the Gran Bosco della Mesola (Great Mesola Forest), one of the last remaining lowland forests in Italy. This Nature Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, offering cycling trails, hiking paths, and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

The Po Delta cycling route is a major attraction for outdoor enthusiasts and slow tourism lovers—a scenic itinerary that follows the river to its meeting with the Adriatic Sea, passing through lagoons and wetlands.

Activities and Experiences in Mesola

All year round, Mesola offers a wide variety of activities designed to enhance the natural and cultural richness of the territory:

• Guided tours of the Este Castle and the Museum of the Deer and Forest
• Free bike tours inside the Gran Bosco della Mesola
• Boat excursions on the Po di Goro to enjoy the fluvial landscape
• Local food tastings in Piazza Santo Spirito, featuring truffles, mushrooms, and typical regional products
• Fairs and craft markets with artisanal items, biological foods, and traditional dishes

Food Curiosity: The Sweet Radicchio of Mesola

Thanks to the sandy soil surrounding the Mesola Forest, this area produces a sweet and intensely flavored radicchio, perfect for both traditional recipes and modern culinary experiments. It’s a must-try product that reflects the area’s rich connection between land and gastronomy.