The French town of Annecy lies on the lake of the same name. The lake attracts water sports enthusiasts, while the picturesque surroundings are conducive to organizing picnics and various outdoor events. Fish caught in the lake are the basis of many regional dishes. There are canals and bridges, which is why the city is sometimes called the Venice of the Alps. The 12th-century prison (Palais de l'Ile), the shape of which resembles a ship and is surrounded by water, is a tourist attraction and the landmark of the town. Today the building hosts a regional museum and it served the function of a prison during World War II for the last time.