Two additional lakes called Straccia di Cappa and Baccano seem to have disappeared over the years and were last seen on a 17th century map of the area.

By way of contrast, underwater excavations near the lakeside town of Anguillara have 'unearthed' a Neolithic village from 8000 years ago.

Do visit the Museo Pigorini to view the finds, as well as the Etruscan museum in the other lakeside town of note, Trevignano.

The ancient Romans went a little crazy for the waters of Lake Bracciano and Martignano (or Alseatinus as they called it) and built a 32km long acquaduct all the way to Trastevere on the western bank of the Tiber. You can still see the point where the water started its slow trickle to Rome.

The most important ruin from the classical era is Villa Claudia, the private home of a rich Republican family. Find out what all the fuss was about by visiting the bottling plant of 'Acqua Claudia' mineral water near Anguillara.

Immediately after a fine, fresh fish meal in one of the restaurants bordering the lake, do resist the temptation to go for a swim as the land underfoot drops rapidly.

If you want to get out deep, hire a pedalo and take some photos of the lakeside towns.

Ambientalists will be pleased to know that motor powered boats are forbidden and the lake has become a huge attraction for dragon boat enthusiasts of late. Races are run here.