The northern region of Lombardy is a generous supply of hills and Lakes ranging from Iseo, Como and Northern Lake Garda to the Easter slope of Lake Maggiore. The landscape throughout this region is incredibly characteristic and consist of the mountainous Alpine zone to the north, gentle foothills in the centre and alluvial sloping plains which gently touch the Po River in the south of the region. Scenic lakes are somewhat familiar here and most of them drain in a southern direction via the numerous rivers and tributaries. The townships in Lombardy have always been strong and independent, examples like Milan, Bergamo and Brescia have always fought off feudal rulers and governed themselves. In the 11th century, this enabled towns like this to establish themselves as European commercial leaders. However it wasn't until the 12th century when their wits were really tested, against the invading emperor Frederick I Barabossa. The Lombardy League was created and the local towns marched to their victory in 1176. Although regional towns like Mantua, and Monza are prized for their ability to produce abundant levels of furniture and textiles, the Lombardy region can be most accredited as Italy's leading agricultural zone.