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Fontana di Villa Geno, Viale Geno, 12, 22100 Como CO, Italy (June 2022)
Como
Como, Italy, is one of the most enchanting destinations in northern Italy, celebrated for its breath-taking lake, elegant architecture, and relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Nestled at the southern tip of Lake Como and surrounded by the foothills of the Alps, the city offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural sophistication that has attracted travellers, artists, and aristocrats for centuries. Its scenic landscapes, tranquil waters, and charming historic centre make it a perfect example of Italian grace and style. Whether you are drawn by its romantic views, its artistic heritage, or its refined cuisine, Como offers an unforgettable experience.
The city of Como has a long and fascinating history that stretches back to ancient times. Originally founded by the Romans, it developed as an important centre of trade and craftsmanship due to its strategic position between Milan and the northern Alpine passes. Through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Como became renowned for its production of silk, an industry that brought wealth and prestige to the region. The city’s silk tradition continues today, with high-quality textiles and elegant fashion items that remain among Como’s most famous exports.
Architecturally, Como is a treasure trove of artistic and historical landmarks. The magnificent Como Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance styles, stands at the heart of the city and reflects the skill and devotion of generations of artisans. The old town’s narrow streets are lined with elegant buildings, cosy cafés, and boutique shops, offering a delightful blend of past and present. Along the waterfront, grand villas and lush gardens create a picture-perfect setting that has inspired painters, poets, and film directors from around the world.
Beyond the city centre, the surrounding landscape of Lake Como is simply spectacular. The lake’s deep blue waters and dramatic mountain backdrop create one of the most beautiful natural panoramas in Europe. Ferries and boats connect Como with other picturesque towns such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, allowing visitors to explore the region’s rich variety of scenery and culture. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, sailing, and cycling, while those seeking relaxation will find peace in the tranquil rhythm of lake life.
Como also offers a refined culinary scene that reflects both Lombard and Alpine influences. From traditional risottos to delicate lake fish and fine wines, every meal becomes an experience of Italian authenticity. In every sense, Como embodies the elegance, history, and natural splendour that define the very essence of Italy.
Worth a Visit
Located within Como’s historic San Bartolomeo district, Via Armando Diaz is an unassuming yet captivating street that embodies the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Named after General Armando Diaz, celebrated for his leadership of the Italian Army during World War I, the street anchors a vibrant quarter that’s both walkable and historically resonant. One of the street’s most prominent landmarks is the Pinacoteca Civica di Palazzo Volpi, located at and housed in a 17th-century Renaissance style palace. The civic art gallery showcases an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance sculptures, stained glass, tapestries, and notable portraits of Italian luminaries. This cultural gem provides a direct window into Como’s artistic past, right in the heart of Via Diaz.
At the cultural crossroads of Como’s historic heart lies Piazza Giuseppe Verdi, a refined and welcoming open square that beautifully frames two of the city’s architectural landmarks: the Teatro Sociale and the Duomo di Como. This piazza isn’t just a crossroads, it’s a moment of arrival, where artistry, history, and civic life converge. The focal point of the piazza is the Teatro Sociale, a neoclassical gem whose construction began in 1812. Designed by Giuseppe Cusi and funded by Como’s cultural elite, the theatre opened its doors in August 1813 with the opera Adriano in Siria. Its stately façade, anchored by a pronaos of six Corinthian columns, immediately commands attention and sets a tone of refined drama.
Situated on the lakeshore beside the historic temple, the Giardini del Tempio Voltiano offer visitors a peaceful public green space that complements both the scientific and architectural significance of the Tempio Voltiano. Built between 1925 and 1927 and inaugurated in 1928 to mark the centenary of Alessandro Volta’s death, the temple, and its surrounding gardens, were sponsored by industrialist Francesco Somaini and masterfully designed by architect Federico Frigerio. These gardens are a favourite among locals, particularly younger generations, as a relaxed meeting place and an idyllic spot for open-air enjoyment. Their tranquil atmosphere, enhanced by a lakeside setting facing the beautiful first basin of Lake Como, makes them perfect for leisurely strolls or quiet reflection.
Situated on the scenic shores of Lake Como, the Monumento ai Caduti di Como stands as a solemn yet architecturally striking tribute to the 650 citizens of Como who perished during World War I. Designed by Giuseppe Terragni, a leading figure in Italy’s Rationalist architectural movement, in collaboration with his brother Attilio (then mayor of Como), the monument was completed and inaugurated in 1933 . The monument draws inspiration from a visionary sketch by futurist architect Antonio Sant’Elia, a Como native and one of WWI’s early casualties. Sant’Elia envisioned a lighthouse-like structure symbolizing dynamism and modernity, ideas that Terragni adapted into a dignified memorial tower.
Located on the shores of Lake Como next to the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium, the Aero Club Como stands as the world’s oldest seaplane organization and flight school, certified by Guinness World Records for its pioneering role since its founding in 1930. Yet seaplanes soared above these waters as early as 1913, when Italy’s first-ever was launched from Lake Como, a moment that roots Como in the genesis of aviation history. Operating as a devoted non-profit amateur sports association, the club fosters a community of pilots and enthusiasts dedicated to preserving and expanding seaplane aviation traditions. Its flight school, the most important in Europe for water-based aircraft, welcomes complete beginners and seasoned pilots seeking SEP or amphibious ratings.
Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Stazione FS San Giovanni, P.le S. Gottardo to Via Armando Diaz
Approximately 0.99 km – 0.61 miles
The walk starts at Stazione FS San Giovanni, P.le S. Gottardo – P.le S. Gottardo – V.le Tokamachi – V.le Innocenzo XI – Via Tolomeo Gallio – Piazza Cacciatori delle Alpi – Viale Varese – Walk back along Viale Varese to Via Cinque Giornate – Via Armando Diaz
Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Via Armando Diaz to Piazza Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour
Approximately 1.02 km – 0.63 miles
The walk starts in Via Armando Diaz – Via Lambertenghi – Via Bonanomi – Via Collegio dei Dottori – Via Rusconi – Via Vittorio Emanuele II – Via Maestri Comacini – Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta & Santa Pazienza Di Como- Duomo di Como, Piazza del Duomo – Giardino Monsignor Alessandro Maggiolini – Piazza Giuseppe Verdi – Via Pretorio – Piazza del Duomo – Via Caio Plinio Secondo – Piazza Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour
Photo Gallery of Walk 3 – Fontana di Villa Geno, Viale Geno to Lungo Lario Trieste
Approximately 1.25 km – 0.78 miles
The walk starts at the Fontana di Villa Geno – Viale Geno – Passeggiata romantica – Piazza Alcide de Gasperi – Lungo Lario Trieste – Via Coloniola – Via Dionigi da Parravicino – Via Crespi – Piazza De Orchi – Piazza De Orchi – Piazza Giacomo Matteotti – Lungo Lario Trieste
Photo Gallery of Walk 4 – Lungo Lario Trieste to Passeggiata Lino Gelpi
Approximately 1.79 km – 1.11 miles
The walk starts in Lario Trieste – Lungolago Mafalda di Savoia – Giardini del Tempio Voltiano – Viale Giancarlo Puecher – P.le Francesco Somaini – Passeggiata Lino Gelpi
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