Como Lake

"Quel Ramo Del Lago Di Como Che Volge A Mezzogiorno [...]"

This is how Alessandro Manzoni's famous novel entitled "The Betrothed" begins. The Milanese writer in fact set his story in one of the many countries overlooking this beautiful and very particular lake, perhaps precisely because he fell in love with it, just like many Hollywood stars and VIPs still do... (ok, I'm biased I know.. but that it is beautiful and particular is objective and that it is frequented by many famous people is reality). It must be said, however, that the "branch" Manzoni speaks of is the right-wing one, which today is the province of Lecco and no longer of Como but I would like to point out that Lake LECCO does not exist as many locals want make believe... the lake is that of Como and stop! At most you can also call it "Lario" but certainly not Lake Lecco.

Having made this little parenthesis... let's return to what's to see here in Como!

There are many things that this city, mine, offers! :) Let's start from the center: from the medieval era it is quite contained and can be explored in a short time on foot, characterized by various small squares and old buildings. Even Piazza Duomo is very small compared to the sumptuous and fascinating cathedral in late Gothic style whose façade rises forcefully and which during the Christmas period is practically invaded by plays of light. In fact, in recent years, thanks to the beautiful Christmas decorations of the "City of Toys" and the markets scattered here and there, Como has attracted even more tourists from all parts of the world. 

Another lovely little square is that of S. Fedele with the Basilica of the same name, much smaller and almost hidden among the surrounding buildings. Continuing the walk through the center you reach Porta Torre, one of the few remains of the Roman walls of the city. This fortress overlooks Piazza Vittoria with its statue dedicated to Garibaldi. But let's go back into the center and reach the long lake. In fact, beyond the Duomo there are two of the largest squares in the city. One is Piazza Cavour with its benches and fountains where you can enjoy a good ice cream, and the other is the lovely Piazza Volta with the statue of the same name and a meeting place for many young people especially on summer evenings. The walk along the lake is very romantic, where on one side we find the War Memorial and the Volta Temple museum with its gardens, while on the other side the long Viale Geno with many restaurants and bars that offer a beautiful view of the lake . Here there is also the entrance to the funicular with which you can reach Brunate, a pretty mountain village from which you have an excellent view of Como from above. Worth a visit. 

This city is also famous for its historic homes. In fact, there are countless large VILLAS on the lake, some of which can be visited, others which are still private residences. Among the most famous I mention Villa D'Este, which has become one of the most famous 5* hotels with a beautiful swimming pool on the lake and an excellent restaurant where I had the honor and pleasure of having lunch. Villa Carlotta with its stupendous botanical garden, the sumptuous Villa Olmo with its well-kept park, always home to important events (until recently even evenings and aperitifs with background music) as well as the more congress-oriented Villa Erba. And do we perhaps want to forget about Villa Oleandra or rather... the so-called Villa Clooney? :) Obviously it is not possible to access it.. or even get close to it as it is super armored and guarded... but at least walk past it or see it from the lake.. for those who recognize it of course! ;)