Como Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is one of the most important and visited monuments in the city of Como. Built between 1396 and 1740, it is a perfect example of a fusion of different architectural styles, in particular Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque.

Main features:

• Facade: The main facade, completed in 1455, is in Gothic style with rich sculptural decorations. Two large statues of Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger, famous citizens of Como, adorn the main entrance.
• Dome: The dome, designed by architect Filippo Juvarra and completed in 1744, is in Baroque style. At 75 meters high, it dominates the city skyline.
• Interior: The interior, with three naves, preserves precious Renaissance tapestries and paintings of great value, including works by Bernardino Luini and Gaudenzio Ferrari.
• Stained Glass Windows: The splendid stained glass windows are among the cathedral´s most prized treasures, depicting biblical scenes and the lives of the saints.

Location:
The Duomo is located in the heart of the historic center of Como, a few steps from Lake Como, and is an unmissable stop for visitors who want to discover the rich artistic and religious history of the city.

Curiosities:

• The Como Cathedral is considered one of the most majestic cathedrals in Northern Italy.
• The construction of the cathedral took more than 300 years, which is why you can see different architectural styles.

Visiting it is a unique experience, which allows you to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of one of the symbolic places of Lombardy.

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Como´s lakefront is one of the most fascinating places in the city, a panoramic walk that runs along the shores of Lake Como. About 1.5 km long, the path winds through picturesque gardens, elegant historic buildings and outdoor cafes, offering spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Perfect for a relaxing stroll or an aperitif with a lake view, the lakeside promenade is the heart of the city's social and tourist life.

Among the most important points of interest along the promenade are:

• Piazza Cavour, the starting point of the walk and the center of city life.
• The Volta Temple, a museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery, born in Como.
• The War Memorial, an imposing commemorative tower from the fascist era, designed by Giuseppe Terragni.
• Villa Olmo, a sumptuous neoclassical villa immersed in a large park, which hosts events and art exhibitions.

The lakefront also offers access to piers where boats depart for excursions on Lake Como, allowing you to discover the beauty of other lakeside towns, such as Bellagio, Varenna and Tremezzo.

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The Volta Temple is one of the most important symbols of the city of Como, dedicated to the famous scientist from Como Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery. Located along the lakeside, it is a building of great historical and architectural interest, as well as one of the most visited attractions in the city.

Main features:

• Architecture: The Volta Temple is an elegant neoclassical building, designed by the architect Federico Frigerio and inaugurated in 1928 on the occasion of the centenary of Volta´s death. The structure is inspired by classical temples, with a central circular plan, a portico with Ionic columns and a majestic dome. The exterior is enriched by statues and bas-reliefs that celebrate the figure and discoveries of Volta.
• Interior and Museum: Inside, the Temple houses a museum that preserves numerous objects and scientific instruments used or created by Alessandro Volta, including versions of the famous battery and other devices related to his studies on electricity. Also on display are manuscripts, letters and original documents that testify to his life and research. The museum is divided into two floors:
  • Ground floor: Contains models and instruments related to Volta's experiments, including the first versions of the electric battery.
  • First floor: Displays personal memorabilia and a collection of letters and documents, as well as portraits and busts dedicated to the scientist.

Location:
The Volta Temple is located in Viale Marconi, along the Como lakefront, immersed in a charming public garden, the Garden of the Volta Temple. The panoramic position offers an enchanting view of the lake and the mountains, making the site a perfect place for a cultural visit and a relaxing walk.

Curiosities:

• Alessandro Volta, born in Como in 1745, is one of the most famous physicists in the world for his studies on electricity. His invention of the electric battery in 1800 revolutionized the world of science.
• The Volta Temple was built thanks to the funding of the industrialist Francesco Somaini, as a sign of homage and recognition towards the scientist from Como.

Cultural significance:
The Volta Temple is not only a tribute to one of the greatest Italian scientists, but also a point of reference for visitors interested in the history of science. It is a place that celebrates human genius and its ability to transform knowledge into innovations that have changed the course of history.

Visiting the Volta Temple offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the life and discoveries of Alessandro Volta, in an environment full of history and architectural charm.

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Villa Olmo is one of the most prestigious and iconic villas in Como, located along the western shore of Lake Como. Built in neoclassical style, it is an important cultural and tourist center, known for its architectural beauty and its splendid gardens overlooking the lake.

Main features:

• History: Villa Olmo was commissioned in 1782 by Marquis Innocenzo Odescalchi and designed by architect Simone Cantoni. The name "Olmo" comes from a majestic elm, a centuries-old tree that once stood in the villa´s garden. Over the centuries, the villa has hosted illustrious personalities, including Napoleon Bonaparte, Garibaldi and Ugo Foscolo.
• Architecture: is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, with an imposing façade featuring elegant Corinthian columns and a decorated triangular tympanum. The interior of the villa is equally sumptuous, with richly decorated rooms, frescoes and period furnishings, many of which have been restored to preserve their original charm.
• Gardens: The villa is surrounded by a large English park, which extends to the shores of the lake. The garden is embellished with fountains, statues and well-kept flowerbeds, offering a breathtaking view of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The park is open to the public and is a perfect space for relaxing walks or picnics with a view.

Current Function:
Today, Villa Olmo is owned by the Municipality of Como and is used as a center for cultural events, art exhibitions and conferences. It regularly hosts temporary exhibitions of internationally renowned artists, concerts, gala evenings and public events. The villa is also a very popular location for weddings and private events, thanks to its exclusive location and historic charm.

Location:
Villa Olmo is located about 1.5 km from the center of Como, along the road that follows the lakefront. The location offers easy access both from the city and from other towns on the lake, and can be reached on foot or by bicycle via a pleasant walk.

Curiosities:

• During the 19th century, the villa was an important meeting place for the great intellectuals of the time.
• The villa has retained its aristocratic character over time and represents one of the most beautiful examples of a neoclassical villa on Lake Como.

Visitor Experience:
Visiting Villa Olmo is immersing yourself in the history and elegance of a bygone era. The combination of refined architecture, scenic gardens and location on Lake Como makes it a must-see destination for those wishing to explore the region's historical and cultural heritage.

Whether it´s a cultural visit, a stroll in the park or attending one of the regular events, Villa Olmo offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

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Piazza San Fedele is one of the oldest and most fascinating squares in Como, located in the heart of the medieval historic center. It is a picturesque square full of history, surrounded by medieval and Renaissance buildings, which still retains the charm of an ancient village.

Main features:

• Church of San Fedele: The square takes its name from the Church of San Fedele, one of the oldest churches in the city, dating back to the 7th century. The church was rebuilt in the 12th century in Lombard Romanesque style, and is famous for its unique semicircular apse and bell tower. Inside, you can admire medieval frescoes and works of sacred art, which testify to the long history of the church and worship in Como.
• Medieval Architecture: Piazza San Fedele is surrounded by well-preserved medieval buildings, many of which date back to the period between the 13th and 15th centuries. Among these, the houses with half-timbered facades stand out, a rarity in Italy, which give the square a unique and ancient atmosphere. The narrow streets that branch off from the square are typical of the historic center of Como and keep the medieval urban structure intact.
• Medieval Market: In the Middle Ages, the square hosted the grain and goods market, being one of the most important commercial centers of the city. Even today, the square maintains a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with outdoor cafes, craft shops and small workshops that recall times gone by.

Atmosphere:
Piazza San Fedele is known for its intimate and authentic character, far from the traffic and modern frenzy. It is an ideal place to relax, sip a coffee outdoors or simply stroll through the medieval streets, enjoying the historical charm of the city. During the day, the square is animated by residents and tourists, while in the evening it becomes a quiet place, perfect for a romantic stroll.

Curiosities:

• The Church of San Fedele is dedicated to San Fedele, a Christian martyr, whose relics are preserved in the church.
• Some of the buildings around the square still feature medieval decorations, such as mullioned windows and stone portals, which tell the story of the city´s long history.
• Piazza San Fedele is often used for cultural events and craft markets, keeping alive the historical tradition of the place as a meeting and trading point.

Visitor experience:
Visiting Piazza San Fedele is like stepping back in time. Its intimate atmosphere and historical authenticity offer a unique experience, far from the most crowded areas of the city. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in medieval Como and discover hidden and suggestive corners of the historic center.

The combination of ancient history, architectural beauty and a relaxed atmosphere makes it an unmissable stop for those who want to discover the most authentic side of the city.

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The Como-Brunate Funicular is one of Como's most beloved and iconic attractions, connecting the city to the picturesque village of Brunate, located at about 700 meters above sea level. Inaugurated in 1894, the funicular offers a scenic journey of great beauty and is a unique way to explore the hills above Lake Como.

Main features:

• The route: The funicular covers a distance of about 1 km, with a difference in altitude of over 500 meters, allowing passengers to enjoy breathtaking views of the lake, the city of Como and the surrounding mountains. The journey lasts about 7 minutes and is on a single track with a crossing point halfway. The departure is from the Como station, located near the lake, while the arrival is at the Brunate station, a small village known as "the balcony of the Alps" for its spectacular views.
• Panoramic View: One of the main attractions of the funicular is the spectacular view that can be enjoyed during the ride. As it ascends towards Brunate, passengers can see the entire panorama of Lake Como, with its villages and mountains that are reflected in the blue waters, creating a postcard-like landscape.
• Brunate: Once in Brunate, visitors can explore the village, famous for its Art Nouveau villas built between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From here, there are numerous hiking trails that lead to spectacular viewpoints, such as the Volta Lighthouse, dedicated to Alessandro Volta. The lighthouse offers a 360-degree view of Como, the lake and, on clear days, the Alps and the Po Valley.

History:
The funicular was built in 1894 to facilitate access to Brunate, which at the time was becoming a popular tourist and residential destination. Initially powered by steam, the funicular was later electrified, ensuring a faster and more comfortable service. Over the years, the line has been modernized several times, always maintaining its historic charm.

Visitor Experience:
Climbing aboard the Como-Brunate Funicular is an unmissable experience for those visiting Como. The journey not only offers breathtaking views, but also allows you to reach a charming village where you can go trekking, walking or simply enjoy the tranquility of the mountains. It is an ideal trip for a different day, away from the chaos of the city, but easily reachable from the center of Como.

Curiosities:

• The funicular was one of the first in Italy and still represents an example of perfectly functioning historical engineering.
• Brunate is known for being the favorite holiday destination of many artists and intellectuals of the past, thanks to its tranquil atmosphere and its panoramic position.
• During the journey, on clear days, you can also see Milan on the horizon.

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The War Memorial of Como is an imposing commemorative tower located along the city´s lakeside, built to pay homage to the Como soldiers who fell during the First World War. This monument is not only a symbol of historical memory, but also an important example of Italian rationalist architecture.

Main features:

• Design: The monument was designed by the architect Giuseppe Terragni, one of the main exponents of the rationalist movement in Italy, inspired by a sketch by the futurist Antonio Sant´Elia, an architect from Como who died during the First World War. The project was carried out between 1931 and 1933.
• Structure and dimensions: The monument has the shape of a 33-meter-high tower, built entirely of travertine marble and granite. Its simple and geometric structure is characteristic of rationalism, with clean lines and clear volumes. Inside, a staircase leads to the top, from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Como and the city.
• Inscriptions and symbolism: The names of the soldiers of Como who fell during the Great War are engraved on the facades of the monument, making it a place of profound commemorative significance. The sobriety of the structure and the absence of decorative ornaments underline the intent to honor the fallen through a solemn and austere architecture.

History and context:
The idea of erecting a monument to the fallen took shape in the first post-war period, and the choice of the project was based on the visionary sketches of Antonio Sant´Elia, who, despite his premature death, was already known for his innovative architectural vision. Giuseppe Terragni, considered one of the most important architects of the twentieth century, managed to reinterpret in a rationalist key the monumental style envisaged by Sant'Elia, thus creating a work that is a symbol of modern architecture in Italy.

Location:
The monument is located in Viale Puecher, along the Lungolago Mafalda di Savoia, in a privileged position a few steps from the city center and the Volta Temple. Its strategic position near the lake allows you to fully appreciate its visual and symbolic impact, with the reflection of the tower mirrored in the waters of the lake.

Curiosities:

• The Monument to the Fallen is one of the few examples of monuments to the fallen built according to the principles of rationalist architecture, a movement that focused on simple and functional forms, as opposed to ornamental and traditional styles.
• Antonio Sant´Elia, whose design inspired the monument, is known for his futuristic visions of the modern city, although many of his works were never realized due to his premature death during the war.
• The monument, despite its modern style, has perfectly integrated into the context of the lakeside, becoming an architectural and historical landmark for the city of Como.

Visitor experience:
The Monument to the Fallen is open to the public and represents not only a tribute to the fallen of the First World War, but also a testimony of great artistic and architectural value. The climb to the top offers a privileged point of view to admire the lake and the surrounding mountains, making the visit a memorable experience from both a historical and panoramic point of view.

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Lake Como (Latin: Lacus Larius), also known as Lario, is one of the most famous and beautiful lakes in Italy. With its characteristic "upside-down Y" shape, it is the third largest lake in Italy, with a surface area of approximately 145 km² and a maximum depth of over 400 meters, which also makes it one of the deepest lakes in Europe.

Main features:

• Location: Situated at the foot of the Alps, in the Lombardy region, the lake extends between the provinces of Como and Lecco.
• Landscape: Lake Como is renowned for its breathtaking landscape, with mountains reflecting in the crystal-clear waters, charming villages overlooking the shores, and sumptuous historic villas with lush gardens.
• Activities: The lake is an ideal place for outdoor activities, such as sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, hiking and cycling. It is also a popular tourist destination for its tranquility and natural beauty, which has inspired artists and writers for centuries.
• Climate: Thanks to its position protected by the mountains, the climate of Lake Como is mild and temperate, ideal for the cultivation of olives and citrus fruits, creating a unique Mediterranean atmosphere.

Curiosities:

• Lake Como is also famous for its historic villas, such as Villa Balbianello and Villa Carlotta, which attract visitors from all over the world.
• It is often considered one of the favorite destinations of international celebrities, and is known for being an exclusive and luxury destination.

With its romantic atmosphere and unforgettable views, Lake Como is an unmissable stop for those who want to live a unique experience between nature, history and culture.
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