Portale del Lago di Como

Thanks to its geographical position, Lake Como  developed a diverse and profound culture, which in every period has been capable of making the most of its people’s wisdom from contact with the most varied of populations, stimulating the creation of many fascinating works of art. The lake, together with its network of ancient Roman roads such as the Antica Strada Regina and  the Sentiero del Viandante (the Wayfarer’s Trail), overlooked by towers and castles, was the route  for trade and exchange of culture between Como and the area north of the Alps. The Lake Como area has a great variety of landscapes dotted with settlements and towns that are a testimony of human creativity:  splendid villas immersed in centuries-old parks, architectural examples of extraordinary artistic and religious value, archaeological findings and ancient settlements,  fortifications and castles. Historic and cultural treasures are kept in a variety of museums. You can also follow themed itineraries dedicated to famous people, such as Alessandro Manzoni and Alessandro Volta, who brought recognition to this area, or itineraries in order to visit the villas and its gardens, the Romanesque churches or the rationalist architecture. In the following pages you will find descriptions on all the sites that can be visited in every town (see Towns or site seeing under the menu territory).