Overlooking the harbour of Lazise, the Old Customs house is one of the village’s most iconic historic buildings and one of the most significant reminders of Lake Garda’s Venetian past. Built during the era of the Republic of Venice, the building played a strategic role in trade between Lombardy and the Venetian territories.

In the 17th century, the building functioned as a proper lakeside customs house: boats arriving from the lake were obliged to pass under the large arches of the façade before being able to enter the harbour through a side entrance. It was here that inspections took place and duties on goods were paid, at a key hub for trade at the time.

The history of the Old Customs house is, however, very complex, and over the centuries the building has served various purposes. As early as the 16th century, it was used for the production of saltpetre, an essential component of gunpowder, and also housed flocks of sheep intended for this purpose. After the fall of the Republic of Venice, its customs function ceased definitively and the access from the lake was filled in.

Over time, the building was used as a shipyard and a warehouse, and during the Fascist period it also became a Casa del Fascio. Despite its many transformations, the building has retained its strong historical and architectural character, continuing to stand as one of the landmarks of Lazise’s lakefront.

A major restoration completed in 2003 breathed new life into the Old Customs house, which has now been transformed into an elegant conference centre and venue for cultural events. Its picturesque location on the harbour and the charm of its ancient arches make it, even today, one of the most iconic and photographed spots in the Garda village.