Lake Albano – Italy

Lake Albano (Lago Albano or Lago di Castelgandolfo) is situated in the province of Rome in the region of Lazio at an altitude of 291 metres. The lake has a surface of 6 sq. km and a maximum depth of 170 metres. The lake lies in a caldera of an extinct volcanic crater. Its water level is regulated by an ancient out-flow channel, the lake has no natural in- and out-flows. Lake Albano is fed by underground sources as well as by rain and dew. Lake Albano is separated by Monte Cavo from the neighbouring Lake Nemi.

Several fish species  live in the lake: Perch, Trout, Common Rudd, Pike, Tench, European Chub, Carp and Hawk. Among  the bird species, Buzzard, Merlin and Sparrow as well as water bird species such as Grey Heron, Coot, Eurasian Wigeon and Garganey, Little Grebe and Great Crested Grebe are found. Amphibian species, however, are rare, Salamander, Hermann´s Tortoise and Slowworm are found sporadically.

Due to the increasing water demand of the surrounding communities as well as for the irrigation of the pontifical gardens of the summer residence, the water level of Lake Albano has sank dramatically in the last few years.

Partner organisation

Provincia di Roma

Contact person: Michele Civita, Councillor for Environment

Via IV Novembre, 149

I - 00187 Roma, Italy

Phone: + 39 - 06 67 - 66 71 51 or 06 67 - 66 73 24

Fax: + 39 - 06 67 - 66 73 28

E-mail: m.civita@provincia.roma.it

Website: www.provincia.roma.it