Visit Como - Lake Como
The ancient city of Como, formerly known as Comum, is probably of Celtic origin. The Roman consul Marcellus conquered it in 196 BC and it later became a Roman colony under Julius Caesar. It suffered, like the entire region, barbarian devastation to the point of granting itself episcopal interest under the Franks.
In the 11th century Como was the protagonist of the bloody ten-year war with Milan: at the end, after long years of atrocious fratricidal clashes, it was defeated. Como was definitively included in the possessions of Milan in 1451, while maintaining an independent commercial role thanks to its wool and silk industry.
Later in 1500, it was besieged and conquered by the Spanish, who ruled it for a good 200 years. Then, after a brief period of French government, the city passed to Austria in 1707. However, Napoleon's French came back, conquered it again and incorporated it into the first Cisalpine Republic. The Austrians were not slow though, and regained it back in 1814.
Finally, in 1848 the Risorgimento uprisings were also felt on the lake, and even Como experienced its Five Days of insurrections that led to its liberation and subsequent annexation to the Kingdom of Italy.
What to see and things to do in Como
First tour: Lakefront, Volta Temple and Villa Olmo
We will visit the Como's breakwater, the sculptire called The Life Electric, Tempio Voltinano, the famous steamboat Patria and the majestic Villa Olmo.
Read HERE the itinerary.
Second tour: Cathedral of Como, Teatro Sociale and the old market square
Discovering the Cathedral of Como, the adjoining Palazzo Broletto,Teatro Sociale of Como, the charming Piazza San Fedele, the shopping streets and the ancient fortification. impregnable.
Read HERE the itinerary.
Visit the Silk Museum
The Silk Museum is located in a complex that also houses the historic Como Silk Institute.
Como is deeply linked to silk processing. The origins of this activity in the area date back to the 16th century, but it was only in the mid-19th century that the city gained a leading role in Europe.
Read HERE about the SILK MUSEUM.
Museum, villas, monuments and sights
Events, festivals and music in Como
Beaches and lidos, where to swim in Como
Lido Villa Olmo, with beach, pool, bar and private cabins.
It can be found at Via Per Cernobbio, 2
See itinerary for Villa Olmo.
Best treks and scenic hiking trails in Como
If you want to go trekking, hiking or nordic-walling on Lake Como and discover trails above the Como mountains, we recommend the team HIKING LAKE COMO. Francesca and Mario are professional and passionate certified guides, as well as enthusiastic local people. Contact here.
How to get to Como