Located at the southern end of the western branch of the lake, Como is a charming town, capital of the homonymous province, rich in historical treasures and enchanting lake and mountain views.
To discover the beauties of Como we suggest a short itinerary.
From Piazza Cavour, which was created in 1871 from the filling of the old port, we go to Piazza Duomo, the civil and religious center of the city in medieval times. Here we find the Civic Tower flanked by the Broletto, the ancient municipal palace of 1200, and the majestic Cathedral. The Duomo was built between the end of 1300 and the middle of 1700, a real jewel that brings together different architectural styles. Behind the cathedral, you can admire the neoclassical facade of the Teatro Sociale (1811) and beyond the tracks stands Palazzo Terragni, the former Casa del Fascio, masterpiece of the rationalist architect Giuseppe Terragni, considered the symbol of modern architecture.
From Piazza Duomo, we go to Piazza S. Fedele, one of the most evocative corners of the city, where the beautiful Basilica of San Fedele stands. We then head to Porta Torre (1192) the best preserved remnant of the medieval city walls. Every Saturday and Tuesday and Thursday (only in the morning) there is a market along the ancient walls. We return to the lake where we find the Voltiano temple, erected in 1927 for the first centenary of the death of Alessandro Volta, a native of Como, and, next to it, the Monumento ai Caduti, erected in 1933 to a design by the futurist architect Antonio Sant’Elia.
The walk along the lakefront to the gardens of Villa Olmo allows you to admire the beautiful neoclassical villas that stand on the banks. To admire the city and the Como area of the lake from above, we recommend taking the funicular to Brunate.