CITY GUIDE



Lario Treasures
AN IDEAL WAY TO SEE THE VILLAS, CHURCHES, CASTLES AND MONUMENTS WHICH MAKE THE LARIOπS AREA SO FAMOUS IN THE WORLD

1. San Vincenzo in Galliano. The San Vincenzo basilica and the nearby San Giovanni Battista parish baptistery stand in this little hamlet bordering with Cantù. The basilica is one of the most important examples of Medieval Lombard architecture and the cycle of frescos (11th century) inside the basilica apse are particularly noteworthy.

2. Piona Abbey. The monastic complex in Piona includes the priory church of San Nicolò and the renowned cloisters (1252-57) surrounded by slim columns, each of which is topped by an ornate and refi ned capital. Cluniac in foundation, it is a monastery of rare beauty.

3. Villa Balbianello in Lenno. It stands on a promontory towering above the lake, opposite Bellagio. The villa was commissioned by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini at the end of the 1700s. Its last private owner was the explorer Guido Monzino and since 1988 it has belonged to FAI (the Italian heritage trust). This splendid residence, which may be reached only via a ferry service departing from Sala Comacina, is an icon of the Lake Como area.

4. Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo. It was built at the beginning of the 18th century upon the wishes of the marquis Giorgio Clerici. Purchased by the Nassau royal family in the 1840s, it was then named after Princess Carlotta. She was in fact responsible for creating the splendid Italian garden (with over 500 species of fl ower), which is open to the public from March to November. The original furnishings and the museum of neo-classical works (including the famous Antonio Canova sculptures) may be admired inside. The exterior staircase is of exceptional beauty.

5. Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio. Erected on the foundations of an ancient castle destroyed by the Viscontis in 1375, records show that the villa was already a sumptuous residence at the end of the 15th century, and also in 1533 when purchased by the Sfondrati family. The Serbelloni family bought it in 1788, renovating it and creating its famous park. It was converted into a hotel in 1870 and today is the Grand Hotel.

6. Villa Melzi in Bellagio. This is the most famous of the lakeside mansions and was commissioned by the Duke of Lodi, Francesco Melzi dπEril, to create a stately residence. The interior may not be visited, since the Melzi dπEril descendants still live in the villa. However, the extensive park is open to visitors and this offers a pavilion housing a museum and a chapel with the Francesco and Ludovico Melzi memorial tombs.

7. Villa Vigoni in Menaggio. It stands two kilometres from the centre of the residential hamlet of Loveno, and is one of the loveliest villas in the area. Today it houses an Italo-German cultural centre. The vast park, created in 1840, is extraordinarily attractive and is the venue for concerts and cultural events in the summer months.

8. Villa Erba in Cernobbio. This splendid building dating from the late 1800s, with its panoramic tower and stunning park, was commissioned by the Erba family. In the 1920s it became the property of Carla Erba – wife of Duke Giuseppe Visconti of Modrone and mother of the director Luchino Visconti, who lived here for several years. It was the headquarters of the German command during the Second World War. Both the villa and the park have belonged to a public authorities syndicate since 1986 (exclusive events and meetings may be organised on the premises). The åVilla Erbaπ congress and exhibition centre stands nearby.

9. Vezio Castle in Perledo. The legend goes that it was queen Teodolinda who ordered the building of this beautiful fortress dominating not only Varenna but also a good part of the Lecco shore. Both the drawbridge and the pentagonal curtain wall with a square keep at the centre are typical features. The castle (a private property) was part of a well-structured defence system that controlled the numerous communication routes in the area.

10. Villa Monastero in Varenna. This villa stands in one of the most characteristic villages in the Lake Como area. From the 17th to the 19th century it was enriched with a variety of architectural and decorative styles, from the baroque to the neo-classical and to the eclecticism of the late 1800s. It takes its name from the ancient S. Maria convent previously on the spot. It has been the venue for international meetings since 1950. The splendid botanical garden is unquestionably worthy of a visit.

11. The Orrido in Bellano. This is one of the most fascinating attractions in the Lake Como area. It is a natural gorge that has been shaped by the Piovena River over the course of the centuries: the river fl ows between the rocks, creating majestic and even violent water effects, before fi nally joining the lake. Visitors may visit the Orrido by using the steps and footways specially installed for this purpose, resulting in a unique walk.

12. Villa DπEste in Cernobbio. One of the most famous Lake Como villas. Pellegrino Tibaldi built it in the latter half of the 16th century, upon commission by Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio. It was purchased in 1815 by Caroline of Brunswick, wife of the future George IV of Britain, and was given the name of Villa dπEste due to Carolineπs Este origins. Its garden, nymphaeum with the sculpted group of Hercules and Lichas, and the little neo-classical temple have all become familiar images. It has been one of the most luxurious international hotels since 1873.

13. Villa Pliniana in Torno. It takes its name from a stream that intermittently plunges into the lake via a waterfall (a scene also depicted by the two Plinios). Surrounded by lush vegetation, the building is particularly striking seen from the lake and has captured the interest of many literary talents and distinguished personalities. It was built in 1573 upon commission by Count Anguissola. In 1942 Mario Soldati used it as the setting to his fi lm Malombra, based on the novel by Antonio Fogazzaro.

14. Azzone Visconti Bridge in Lecco. It is also known as Ponte Grande (åthe large bridgeπ: it is 131-metres long and 9-metres wide) and it is located in exactly the spot where the River Adda joins the lake. Symbol of the town, it was built in 1336 thanks to the Duke of Milan, Azzone Visconti. It is a jewel of civil and military engineer since it was designed as an authentic fortress on water. The bridge, comprising eleven arches, has been restored many times. It was once armed with towers and a drawbridge but these were removed in about 1830.

15. Carimate Castle. It was built in 1345 on the site of a previous fort, upon the orders of Luchino Visconti. The castle underwent extensive neo-gothic renovation works at the end of the 19th century, when its regular four-sided plan was altered (two corner towers and double crenellated walls were added). After being a lordπs residence for many centuries, it is now given over to commercial use.

16. Villa Manzoni in Lecco. Alessandro Manzoniπs house in Caleotto belonged to the writer until 1818 and today is home to the Manzoni Museum. The townπs art collection is also on display in the rooms and paintings by 19th and 20th century artists from Lecco may be seen.

17. Isola Comacina. As the only island in the lake (it is on the western side and 29 kilometres from Como), it is a great attraction for tourists. It is a place steeped in extraordinary historical wealth, given its strategic position for the Romans and Byzantines. In the past it was a religious outpost for the Milanese, leading the Como inhabitants to seize it in the 12th century, destroying its buildings and ancient churches, including S. Eufemia (the remains of the three-apse plan are still visible). Instead, the baroque San Giovanni oratory is still intact today. The San Giovanni festival is celebrated on the island in June, with the customary fi reworks display.

18. The Voltiano lighthouse in Brunate. After making the picturesque trip up to Brunate in the cable-car, the hamlet of San Maurizio may be reached on foot or by bus. Here the visitor fi nds the Voltiano lighthouse, which was built in 1927 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Alessandro Voltaπs death. The octagonal-section tower houses a spiral staircase leading to a circular balcony. Once at the top, the spectacular lake scenery and a part of the western Alps may be admired


Town Treasures
A HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL ITINERARY, EXPLORING THE BEST SPOTS, BUILDINGS AND MOST VISITED SIGHTS IN THE PROVINCEπS CAPITAL

The Porta Torre Gate and the City Walls
This gate is the most well known of those in the 11th century city walls. Its tower, 40 metres in height, was built in 1192 and marked the end of the Milan road. The walls include another two towers: the fi rst is named San Vitale (near Via Balestra) and the other Porta Nuova (on Viale Varese).

The Voltiano Temple
It was built in 1927 to mark the fi rst anniversary of Alessandro Voltaπs death. The instruments used by this prominent scientist in his research into electricity are housed inside, together with his world-famous battery. Admission fee: ¤ 3,00 Senior ¤ 1,30 - Groups ¤ 1,50 - Schools ¤ 1,00 Children under 15 with adults: free entrance IV-IX tuesday/sunday 10.00/12.00 - 15.00/18.00 X-III tuesday/sunday 10.00/12.00 - 14.00/16.00

The Novocomum housing
Nick-named the åtransatlanticπ, this residential building was designed by Giuseppe Terragni in 1927. As one of the earliest examples of Italian Rationalism, conservatives faithful to the traditional style protested greatly against its construction.

Casa del Fascio
Built between 1932 and 1936 by the Como-born architect Giuseppe Terragni, it stands as the symbol of Rationalism. The four facades were conceived following a strict solids-voids scheme.

The Cathedral Building
started in 1396 following the project by Lorenzo degli Spazzi, the master from Laino. It was completed in 1740 with Filippo Juvarraπs dome. Statues by the sculptors Plinio the Elder and Plinio the Younger are to be found on the façade. The Porta della Rana door on the left-hand side of the cathedral is particularly renownedgether with his worldfamous battery.

Piazza Cavour
This square by the lakeside is also known as the townπs åparlourπ. Until the end of the 19th century it was Comoπs trading port with a large dock.

The Broletto building
The Podesta Bonardo da Codazzo ordered its construction in the early 1200s, with porticoes on the ground fl oor and fi rst- fl oor reception rooms. The building also comprises the ancient town hall tower.

The San Fedele Basilica
This Romanesque-style church stands on the charming Piazza San Fedele. Several Medieval buildings surround the square, as it was the hub of trade in that era. Worthy of particular attention is the polygonal apse visible from Via Vittorio Emanuele.

The Giovio Museum
It houses artifacts from a variety of periods, including the prehistoric, protohistoric, Roman and Medieval. The tree that the poet Ugo Foscolo liked to rest beneath still stands in the garden. Opening hours: Tuesday to saturday 9.30/12.30 - 14.00/17.00 Sunday 10.00/13.00 - monday closed Admission fee: ¤ 3,00 - Senior ¤ 1,30 - Groups ¤ 1,50 Children under 15 with adults: free entrance

Monument to the European Resistance
Three staircases converge centrally and here a steel slab bears the engraved excerpts from letters written by those fi ghting against Nazi-fascism in Europe between 1940 and 1945. Its shrine contains stones from the Dachau and Mauthausen concentration camps and from Hiroshima.

The Risorgimento Museum
Documents and memorabilia from the 19th century battles for Italian independence are on display here.

Villa Olmo
Designed and erected by Simone Cantoni between 1782 and 1787, it also once belonged to the Visconti family of Modrone. It owes its name to its great elm tree that, according to the legend, was present in Roman times. It currently houses a fascinating exhibition on Pablo Picasso. Open for special events - Garden: 9.00/19.00 wintertime - 8.00/23.00 summertime - Free admission

The SantπElia kindergarten
On the corner of Via dei Mille with Via Alciato. Designed and built in the Rationalist style by Giuseppe Terragni between 1934 and 1937. It was conceived as a single storey so that the main activity areas – the entrance, playrooms, classrooms and dining hall – would not be separated.

Monument to the War
Dead It was built in 1933 by Giuseppe and Attilio Terragni to a design by Antonio SantπElia in memory those who fell in the First World War.

The Silk Museum
Opened in 1990, it illustrates the story of silk from the 1700s to the present day through machinery and textiles. It sets off from silkworm farms and works through to textile creation and processing. Temporary entrance: Via Castelnuovo, 1 - Tel. 031 30 31 80 Tuesday/Friday: 9.00/12.00 - 15.00/18.00 Admission fee: ¤ 8,00 - Groups: ¤ 5,50 - Schools: ¤ 2,60 For schools and groups reservation needed

The SantπAbbondio Basilica
It stands on the remains of a 5th century basilica and is dedicated to Abbondio – the bishop who became the townπs patron saint. From its consecration, on 3rd June 1095, and for the next six hundred years, the basilica was the residence of the bishops of Como. It is held to be the best example of Romanesque architecture in the Como area.

Teatro Sociale
This theatre was constructed in 1811-1813 by the architect Giuseppe Cusi, who gave it a typically 19th century structure. It became the premises for Milanπs La Scala after the 1943 bombing made the Milanese theatre unfi t for use. Guided tours for free all year by appointment.

Baradello Castle
The emperor Federico Barbarossa ordered its construction in 1156, during the ten-year war against Milan. It may be visited inside and it houses items from the period. Free admission: Thursday, Saturday, Sunday and holyday 14.30/18.00

Sinigaglia Stadium
It is situated in the heart of the Rationalism district, which includes the Novocomum, the Canottieri Lario rowing club building and the Giuliani Frigerio house, at number 24 Viale Rosselli.

The Civic Picture Gallery
Recently completely renovated, its collection starts with the Medieval, visits the Renaissance and fi nishes off in the 20th century with works by Antonio SantπElia, Giuseppe Terragni and other abstract painters from Como. Opening hours: Tuesday to saturday 9.30/12.30 - 14.00/17.00 Sunday 10.00/13.00 - monday closed Admission fee: ¤ 3,00 - Senior ¤ 1,30 - Groups ¤ 1,50 Children under 15 with adults: free entrance

The Piazza Camerlata Fountain
The architect Cesare Cattaneo and the painter Mario Radice designed this work in 1936 for the 4th International Triennial of Architecture in Milan. Knocked down after the exhibition, it was rebuilt only in 1964. It extends the principles of Abstractionism geometric minimalism – to sculpture.

Piazza Cavour
In riva al lago, viene anche defi nita il ≥salotto≤ della città. Fino a fi ne Ottocento era il porto commerciale di Como con unπampia darsena.

Broletto
Costruito allπinizio del 1200 dal podestà Bonardo da Codazzo con un porticato a piano terra e sale di rappresentanza al primo piano. Comprende anche lπantica torre del Comune.

Basilica di San Fedele
Eπ di stile romanico e sorge sulla suggestiva piazza San Fedele dove si possono vedere alcuni edifi ci medievali, epoca in cui la piazza era il centro commerciale della città. Da segnalare lπabside poligonale visibile da via Vittorio Emanuele.

Museo Giovio
Si trovano reperti relativi a diverse epoche, preistorica e protostorica, ma anche romana e medievale. Nel giardino cπè lπalbero sotto il quale amava riposarsi il poeta Ugo Foscolo. Orario apertura: da martedì a sabato 9.30/12.30 - 14.00/17.00 domenica 10.00/13.00 - lunedì chiuso Ingresso: Euro 3,00 - Anziani Euro 1,30 - Gruppi Euro 1,50 Gratuito: bambini fi no a 15 anni - Visite guidate su prenotazione

Monumento alla Resistenza europea
Eπ costituito da tre scalinate che convergono al centro, dove su grandi lastre dπacciaio sono incisi brani di lettere di chi combattè in Europa tra il 1940 e il 1945 e diede la vita per resistere al nazifascismo. In una teca sono conservare pietre provenienti dai campi di concentramento di Dachau e Mauthausen e da Hiroshima.

Museo del Risorgimento
Comprende documenti e cimeli appartenenti alle guerre ottocentesche per lπindipendenza.

Villa Olmo
Progettata e realizzata tra il 1782 e il 1787 da Simone Cantoni è stata anche di proprietà dei signori Visconti di Modrone. Deve il suo nome a un grande olmo che, secondo la leggenda, si trovava nel luogo in epoca romana. Attualmente ospita una interessante mostra dedicata a Pablo Picasso. Aperta in occasione di eventi - Parco: 9.00 /19.00 inverno - 8.00/23.00 estate - Ingresso gratuito

Asilo SantπElia
Allπangolo tra via dei Mille e via Alciato. Progettato e realizzato tra il 1934 e il 1937 da Giuseppe Terragni in stile razionalista. Concepito a un solo piano per fare in modo che le principali aree funzionali, atrio–sala da gioco, aule e refettorio non fossero separate tra loro.

Monumento ai Caduti
Costruito da Giuseppe e Attilio Terragni nel 1933 su disegno di Antonio SantπElia per ricordare i morti della prima guerra mondiale.

Museo della Seta
Eπ stato inaugurato nel 1990 e racconta, attraverso macchinari e tessuti, la storia della seta dal Settecento ai giorni nostri. Dallπallevamento dei bachi si arriva alla realizzazione del tessuto e alla sua lavorazione. Ingresso provvisorio: Via Castelnuovo, 1 - Tel. 031 30 31 80 martedì/venerdì: 9.00/12.00 - 15.00/18.00 Ingresso: Euro 8,00 - Gruppi: Euro 5,50 - Scuole: Euro 2,60 Per gruppi e scuole prenotazione obbligatoria

Basilica di SantπAbbondio
Sorge sui resti di una basilica del V secolo ed è dedicata ad Abbondio, il vescovo patrono della città. Dalla data di consacrazione della chiesa, avvenuta il 3 giugno 1095, e per i successivi seicento anni, la basilica divenne la residenza dei Vescovi di Como. Eπ considerata il migliore esempio di architettura romanica del Comasco.

Teatro Sociale
Costruito dal 1811 al 1813 dallπarchitetto Giuseppe Cusi con una struttura interna tipicamente Ottocentesca. Ospitò il Teatro alla Scala di Milano dopo che il bombardamento del 1943 rese inagibile la sala milanese. Tutto lπanno visite guidate gratuite su prenotazione.

Castello Baradello
Realizzato nel 1156 su richiesta dellπimperatore Federico Barbarossa durante la decennale guerra contro Milano. Lπinterno è visitabile e custodisce cimeli dellπepoca. Ingresso gratuito Giovedì, Sabato, Domenica e festivi 14.30/18.00

Stadio Sinigaglia
Si trova in pieno quartiere razionalista, che include il Novocomum, la Canottieri Lario e la casa Giuliani Frigerio, in viale Rosselli numero 24.

Pinacoteca civica
Da poco completamente restaurata, comprende opere che partono dal Medioevo e, passando per il Rinascimento, arrivano fi no al Novecento con dipinti di Antonio SantπElia, Giuseppe Terragni e degli astrattisti comaschi. Orario apertura: da martedì a sabato 9.30/12.30 - 14.00/17.00 domenica 10.00/13.00 - lunedì chiuso Ingresso: Euro 3,00 - Anziani Euro 1,30 - Gruppi Euro 1,50 Gratuito: bambini fi no a 15 anni - Visite guidate su prenotazione

Fontana di Piazza Camerlata
Progettata dallπarchitetto Cesare Cattaneo e dal pittore Mario Radice nel 1936 per la VI Triennale internazionale di architettura di Milano. Dopo lπesposizione venne distrutta e ricostruita nel 1964. Trasferisce in scultura i principi dellπastrattismo, ovvero il rigore geometrico.