|
 |
Varenna is a picturesque medieval village on the east coast of Lake Como. Many elements make it a magical place, such as the unique position in the centre of the lake, the frame of woods and vineyards on the slopes of the nearby mountains, and the sunny climate. Built in the Roman age, Varenna conserves its original forms by presenting itself as a small fishermen’s village, with its typical coloured houses, narrow stone streets and steep staircases. Called “pearl of the lake”, Varenna is also famous for its historical monuments, such as St. George church and the medieval fortress called Vezio Castle, and the ancients abodes of amazing beauty, such as villa Monastero and villa Cipressi.
|
|
|
 |
Lake Como, the third largest lake in Italy, attracts visitors from all around the world thanks to the beauty of its environment and the surrounding mountains, so poetically described by Alessandro Manzoni in his masterpiece "I Promessi Sposi" ("The Betrothed"). The main attractions are the picturesque and colourful villages located on the shores, the natural landscapes with wild valleys and flowering gardens, and the magnificent villas, known for their artistic and architectural interests.
|
 |
Como is the main urban centre of the lake. Dated to the Roman age, the city appears as a mediaeval town with its Baradello Castle and the Broletto Tower. Rich in historical monuments, such as the magnificent Cathedral, the Romanesque churches of St. Fedele and St. Abbondio, and many other modern buildings such as the Tempio Voltiano dedicated to the great scientist Alessandro Volta, Como is also very famous for its silk industry. |
| |
|
One of the most attractive villages of the lake is Bellagio, characterized by its unique position at the top of a flourishing promontory with one of the best view of Lake Como. In fact, here the lake splits itself into three branches by assuming its peculiar shape recalling a Y turned upside down.
|
 |
The fascination of Lake Como also arises from the numerous magnificent residences situated along the shores. Each one having its own peculiarities, they offer different attractions from both cultural and natural points of view.
|
|
|
 |
Among the most famous villas, it is worth mentioning the followings: Villa del Balbianello, located at the top of the Lenno peninsula, with a wonderful view of the gulfs of "Venere" and "Diana"; Villa Carlotta, a neoclassical residence guessing prominent pieces of art such as statues by Canova, paintings by Appiani and Hayez, and gobelins tapestries; Villa Melzi, having a typical English style garden, with Egyptian sculptures and Roman statues, among exotic trees; Villa d’Este, a very prestigious residence also chosen by Italian Government for its official meetings; Villa Olmo, hosting numerous cultural and scientific events; and, finally, Villa Serbelloni, having a breathtaking view of the lake and the mountains from its belvedere over Bellagio.
|
Photos reproduced with permission from the photographic archive:
For further information concerning Varenna:
For further information concerning Lake Como:
For information concerning transportation by ferry on Lake Como:
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
